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Acceptance and attitudes towards carrier and prenatal screening for fragile X syndrome among reproductive-aged Thai women: a cross-sectional study
Author(s)
Tassanakijpanich, Nattaporn
Chumchuen, Kemmapon
Panpaprai, Pacharee
Iamurairat, Wiwat
Chutimongkonkul, Wiboon
Sonnark, Nuttida
Limprasert, Pornprot
Date Issued
January 1, 2026
Type
Article
Abstract
Objectives: Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability, but Thailand lacks a carrier screening programme. We assessed knowledge, attitudes, and acceptance of FXS carrier and prenatal screening among reproductive-aged Thai women, exploring socio-demographic correlates. Methods: This study was conducted at a drop-in clinic, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of a Tertiary Hospital, where eligible women watched a 3-min educational video, and then completed a questionnaire evaluating knowledge, screening acceptance, and four attitude domains (disclosure, policy, relationship, pregnancy continuation). Ordinal logistic regression analysed socio-demographic associations. Results: Post-video, 87% of 772 women understood FXS well. Acceptance was substantial: 82% for carrier screening and 95% for prenatal investigation. Higher education was associated with greater knowledge (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.66, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.23–2.23) and policy support (aOR = 1.83, 95% CI: 1.35–2.48). Older age was associated with lower knowledge (aOR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.96–1.00), disclosure intent (aOR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.96–1.00), and agreement in continuing an affected pregnancy (aOR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.95–0.99). Conclusion: Brief educational interventions can support informed acceptance of FXS screening. To support the diverse reproductive options, Thailand should implement publicly funded voluntary screening with culturally sensitive genetic counselling.
Citation
Critical Public Health, 36(1), 2026