Role of Community Genetics Workers in Reducing Sickle Cell Disease Burden in Rural Kebbi State Communities

Task-shifting genetic services to trained community health workers represents a pragmatic strategy for expanding access to SCD screening and counselling in rural, under-resourced settings in Nigeria. Community genetics workers (CGWs) can facilitate genotype screening, provide basic counselling, and refer families for specialist services. This operational study assessed the effectiveness of CGW-delivered SCD genotype screening and education in four rural communities in Kebbi State, North West Nigeria. Forty CGWs received a two-week structured training on SCD genetics, HemoTypeSC rapid point-of-care genotype testing, and basic counselling using standardised modules. Over six months, CGWs conducted community outreaches serving 800 adults of reproductive age. Pre- and post-intervention surveys measured changes in SCD knowledge, genotype awareness, and intentions to undergo genotype testing before marriage. Post-intervention knowledge scores improved significantly compared to baseline. Genotype testing uptake during CGW outreaches was high. Acceptability of the CGW model was rated positively by community members. These findings support broader investment in CGW programmes as a cost-effective strategy for SCD burden reduction in rural North West Nigeria. Keywords: community genetics workers, sickle cell disease, task-shifting, Kebbi State, rural health