K Knowledge and Perceptions of Female University Students as Prospective Mothers Regarding the Presence of Genetic Disorders in Families

Abstract

Genetic disorders may have medical, psychological, and social implications for families, particularly prospective mothers at risk of transmitting hereditary conditions. This study aimed to assess knowledge and perceptions of genetic disorders among female university students and examine differences between health-related and non-health-related educational backgrounds. An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 114 female students at YARSI University, selected through stratified random sampling by academic year. Participants comprised 75 students from health-related programmes and 39 from non-health-related programmes. Data were analysed using the Pearson chi-square test. The findings showed that 94.7% of health-related students understood the definition of genetic disorders, compared with 71.8% of non-health-related students. Knowledge of heredity as a contributing factor was reported by 93.3% and 89.7%, respectively. However, awareness of specialised healthcare facilities remained limited in both groups, with 85.3% of health-related students and 79.5% of non-health-related students reporting insufficient awareness. A statistically significant difference was identified in knowledge between the two groups, whereas perceptions did not differ significantly. These findings highlight the importance of strengthening genetic health education and awareness of specialised services among female university students.