Population Preference and Attitudes Towards Hepatitis B Vaccination: A Cross-Sectional Study from Lahore
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61919/2636fk23Keywords:
Hepatitis B, Vaccination, Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, Pakistan, Public HealthAbstract
Background: Hepatitis B remains a major global health concern, with significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in Pakistan where knowledge gaps and negative attitudes toward vaccination persist, hindering effective disease control. Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to hepatitis B vaccination among adults in Lahore, identify determinants of vaccine acceptance, and provide evidence to inform targeted public health interventions. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 300 adults in Lahore, selected via convenient random sampling. Inclusion criteria comprised healthcare workers, travelers to endemic areas, children up to 18 years, and laboratory personnel; individuals with severe illness, pregnancy, previous allergic reactions to the vaccine, or requiring dialysis or transplantation were excluded. Data were collected using a structured, pilot-tested questionnaire administered online, capturing demographic information, vaccine knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices. Ethical approval was granted by the institutional review board, with all procedures conforming to the Helsinki Declaration. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, applying descriptive and inferential statistics, including chi-square tests and calculation of odds ratios, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Among participants, 57.0% were male and 78.7% were aged 18–27 years. Healthcare workers displayed higher practice scores (mean 3.12, SD 0.55, p = 0.03), and younger age groups were more likely to accept vaccination (p = 0.05). Urban and rural differences were minimal (p = 0.62). Overall, knowledge and attitudes were moderate, but significant hesitancy persisted, particularly due to misconceptions and cultural beliefs. Conclusion: Substantial knowledge gaps and vaccine hesitancy persist despite reasonable awareness, particularly influenced by occupation, age, and cultural beliefs. Addressing these barriers through integrated education and collaborative healthcare initiatives is crucial to improve hepatitis B vaccine uptake and reduce transmission, with implications for better health outcomes in high-risk populations.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Mahnoor Kamran, Muhammad Mohsin Yar, Tasra Bibi, Muhammad Hunain Baghdadi, Talha Aslam, Syed Faseeh ul Hassan Kazmi, Nayyab Tanveer, Anas Kamran, Muhammad Anas Sarfraz Ghouri, Mahnoor Abbasi (Author)

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