Impact of Antenatal Screening for Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia in Primary Care
Author Information
Author(s): Katrina Brown, Elizabeth Dormandy, Erin Reid, Martin Gulliford, Theresa Marteau
Primary Institution: King's College London
Hypothesis
Does offering antenatal sickle cell and thalassaemia screening in primary care at the time of pregnancy confirmation compromise women's ability to make informed choices?
Conclusion
Offering antenatal SCT screening in primary care did not reduce the likelihood that women made informed choices, but rates of informed choice were low and could be improved by enhancing knowledge.
Supporting Evidence
- 91% of women underwent screening.
- Only 30.6% made an informed choice regarding screening.
- Poor knowledge was the main reason for uninformed choices (65%).
- Education level and age were significant predictors of making informed choices.
Takeaway
The study looked at whether giving pregnant women a blood test for sickle cell and thalassaemia early in their pregnancy helps them make better choices. It found that most women didn't have enough information to make informed choices.
Methodology
A partial factorial, cluster randomized controlled trial conducted in 25 general practices in two socially deprived UK areas.
Potential Biases
Non-responders likely had poorer knowledge than responders, potentially overestimating rates of informed choice.
Limitations
The study had a lower than anticipated sample size and a response rate of 66%, which may have biased the results.
Participant Demographics
Participants were 464 pregnant women from diverse socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds, with about 40% from minority ethnic groups.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.56 to 2.02
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website