Background. Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a relatively common inherited enzyme disorder of red blood cells, especially in the Middle East. G6PD is an enzyme that prevents damage to red blood cells. G6PD deficiency might be associated with several different problems, including jaundice in the first 24 hours of life. The study aimed to assess the extent of awareness and knowledge of the community regarding G6PD deficiency. It was also aimed at determining the association between sociodemographic variables and the level of awareness of the general population of Basrah, Iraq. A survey that was descriptive and cross-sectional in nature was conducted between January and April 2022 across Basrah’s four districts (city center, Al-Qurna). A structured questionnaire that was validated was sent through primary schools to families of students enrolled. The instrument has three sections: G6PD deficiency knowledge assessment, which consists of 10 items; symptom recognition, 7 items; and diet awareness, 9 items. Chi-square tests and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.
Results and conclusions. A total of 469 respondents completed the questionnaire (49 % male; 51 % female). Most of them scored well in general knowledge domains, as the overall level of knowledge was satisfactory. Nevertheless, glaring gaps emerged, as 76 % of respondents were not aware of the features of X-linked inheritance, 38 % could not identify the symptoms, and 43 % had misconceptions about dietary triggers. Males were less aware than female participants (p < 0.05). Their knowledge scores were positively related to an education level and marital status. In conclusion, Basrah population has satisfactory basic knowledge of G6PD deficiency, but shows significant gaps in knowledge regarding inheritance and clinical features. The need for better education, more screening exams and giving children with mental disorders attention in schools is highlighted by these findings.