Impact of Maternal Education, Maternal Job, Residence and Family Economic Status on Childhood Vaccination in Anbar Province

Abstract

Background: This is the first public study done in Anbar province to address the potential causes of incomplete childhood vaccinations. This study highlights that incomplete childhood vaccination in Anbar province remains a significant public health concern. Objectives: To study the possible causes of incomplete childhood vaccinations in Anbar province. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was done on all sectors of Anbar province; the participants were those who visited the health centers during a two-month period. The data was collected from mothers or caregivers of children, and a list of oral questions was prepared for this purpose. The data includes the age of the mother, educational level, job, economic status of the family, number of children, and availability of transportation. The study includes 2 groups of participants, one of families with complete childhood vaccinations and the second of incomplete. Results: The total number of participants was (966) mothers or caregivers for the complete childhood vaccination group and (850) for the incomplete group. Low maternal level of education, low economic status of the families, and low maternal age are recorded as possible causes of incomplete childhood vaccinations in this study. Conclusion: Educational sessions about the benefits of childhood vaccinations are recommended in all sectors of Anbar province to encourage families to immunize.