PUBLIC AWARENESS OF GLUCOSE-6-PHOSPHATE DEHYDROGENASE(G6PD) DEFICIENCY CAUSES AND PREVALENCE FACTORS

Abstract

Glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is an x-linked disorder that consequently causes
the hemolysis of red blood cells (RBCs) when exposed to certain triggering factors like medications,
food or disease. The current study aims to determine the awareness and knowledge level of the Saudi
community in Riyadh city. A random sample of 86 participants was asked to fill a pre-designed
questionnaire examining the awareness and knowledge level about G6PD deficiency. Results of the
study indicated that the Saudi community had a poor knowledge level about G6PD deficiency, especially
in the pattern of inheritance, symptoms, and factors triggering this disorder. The study also recommends
that there is an urgent need to carry out campaigns to increase awareness level in the Saudi community
regarding G6PD deficiency