Abstract

The purpose of this study is to survey self-reported health symptoms and knowledge of Sickle Cell Trait in young adults with an African heritage. The aim is to expand a comprehensive assessment system to measure factors associated with carrying the Sickle Cell Trait. Historically being a Sickle Cell Trait carrier was thought to be asymptomatic. However, current research has suggested this may not be true. While young adults may have greater knowledge of Sickle Cell Disease, little is known about their awareness of Sickle Cell Trait. Furthermore, no research on these topics have been conducted in young adults with African heritage (Latino/Hispanic, Caribbean, Multi-Racial, etc.). Measures of Sickle Cell Trait Carrier Awareness, Sickle Cell Trait Knowledge, and Physical Health Symptoms are presented from 54 young adults with African Heritage. The Hispanic and Multi-Racial participants reported lower awareness of their Sickle Cell Trait Carrier status compared to the African American participants. Hispanic and Multi-Racial participants reported lower Sickle Cell Trait Knowledge compared to the African American participants. All subjects demonstrated lower levels of Sickle Cell Trait Knowledge than would be expected given the potential health consequences.

Thesis Completion

2020

Semester

Summer

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Cassisi, Jeffrey

Co-Chair

Wright, Chrysalis

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Psychology

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Release Date

8-1-2020

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