Keywords: Newborn Screening, Primary Care, Family Medicine, Maternal Knowledge, Attitudes

Aim:

Newborn screening (NBS) programs are critical for the early diagnosis and treatment of preventable metabolic and genetic disorders. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge levels and behavioral attitudes of adults regarding NBS programs in a primary health care setting.

Method:

This cross-sectional study was conducted on a target group of patients who applied to a Family Health Center in Tekirdağ. Data were collected from 423 individuals aged 18–65 years using two structured questionnaires that assessed sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge regarding specific NBS tests (heel blood, hearing, hip dysplasia, and vision screening), and attitudes toward the necessity of these screenings. Both of the questionnaires are prepared by the researcher through a literature review.

Results:

The study indicates that the general knowledge level regarding newborn screenings is at a moderate level, while attitudes among female participants are relatively positive. Higher knowledge levels are significantly associated with being female, middle-aged, married, having fewer children, and possessing higher education and income levels. Individuals who identify healthcare professionals as their primary source of information exhibit higher knowledge and attitude scores, whereas reliance on family and social circles is associated with lower knowledge levels. Although attitudes toward data privacy and usage are generally positive among women, individuals from socioeconomically disadvantaged groups express more significant concerns regarding the usage of personal data.

Conclusions:

Informational activities should be strategically planned to target groups with limited knowledge. It is essential to strengthen structured counseling in primary care, preferably starting from the third trimester of pregnancy, to enhance public awareness and ensure the long-term effectiveness of newborn screening programs.