Correlation between Interpersonal Communication and Sickle Cell and Rhesus factor Incompatibility Awareness among Residents of Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Sickle cell disease and Rhesus factor are two medical conditions that have wrecked serious havoc in many homes and denied some couples the desired conjugal joy. Sickle cell disease and rhesus factor incompatibility are genetically transmitted disorders that affect blood properties. These conditions have resulted in couples having only one child, childlessness, and increase in child mortality rate or the birth of sickly children in affected homes. The above have engendered mutual suspicion and acrimony between couples. This study investigates how interpersonal communication can be employed in creating awareness about sickle cell disease and Rhesus factor incompatibility, especially among intending couples in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. Anchored on the health belief model and the social learning theories, the investigation employed the survey research design to generate responses from a sample of 383 respondents drawn from 8 communities, using the multi-stage sampling technique, using a set of questionnaire. Frequency distribution and simple percentage tables were to present the data for analysis. The findings of this study reveal that Yenagoa residents are aware of sickle cell disease and Rhesus factor incompatibility and that interpersonal communication was very effective in creating awareness and influencing residents, especially intending couples to test for their genotype and rhesus status. The study recommended among others that the federal and state ministries of health in conjunction with the ministry of information should mount a vigorous enlightenment campaign to provide the people with adequate information on sickle cell disease and Rhesus factor incompatibility.

Key words: Sickle cell disease, Rhesus factor, compatibility, interpersonal communication, awareness

DOI: 10.7176/JLLL/78-09

Publication date: April 30^th 2021