Keywords: chronic diseases, immunization, adult vaccination
Aim:
In this study, the aim is to determine the risk status of patients being followed due to chronic diseases at Trakya University Medical Faculty in terms of vaccine-preventable diseases, their concerns and barriers regarding vaccination, their desire for knowledge about adult vaccinations, and the preferred methods of obtaining information.
Method:
The sample of our study consisted of adults over 18 years of age with chronic diseases who applied to outpatient clinics at Trakya University Faculty of Medicine for any reason. The survey form included 28 questions. The Adult Vaccination Knowledge Level Questionnaire, consisting of 16 questions, was developed to evaluate the level of knowledge. Factor analysis was used for construct validity. The scale's Cronbach's alpha value was determined to be 0.85.
Results:
In the evaluation of adult vaccination status, individuals who had received any adult vaccination were considered vaccinated. Among the most well-known vaccines in our study, seasonal flu had a 58.3% awareness rate, tetanus had 52.87%, and pneumonia had 36.8%. Of the participants, 70.8% stated that they did not have information about vaccine costs. In our study, individuals with cardiovascular disease had a higher vaccination rate. Women were found to have a more positive attitude towards vaccination compared to men. Lower educated ones showed more negative attitudes and behaviors towards vaccination compared to others. Healthcare workers had a higher vaccination rate compared to others.
Conclusions:
In conclusion, creating an adult immunization card with the goal of reaching the entire population, starting with high-risk groups, and ensuring free and easy access to these vaccines can be targeted. Family Medicine, which implements a multidisciplinary team approach for the preservation and improvement of health, plays a key role in educating and raising awareness among individuals about adult immunization, as well as identifying and eliminating barriers to vaccination through necessary trainings.
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