Promoting Awareness of Childhood Vaccines in the Uyghur Turk Community in Türkiye: A Heath Education Intervention

Promoting Awareness of Childhood Vaccines in the Uyghur Turk Community in Türkiye: A Heath Education Intervention | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article Promoting Awareness of Childhood Vaccines in the Uyghur Turk Community in Türkiye: A Heath Education Intervention Nimetcan Mehmet Orhun, Mehmet Enes Gökler, Egemen Ünal, Alimcan Buğda, and 4 more This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-7936992/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Published Journal Publication published 30 Jan, 2026 Read the published version in BMC Public Health → Version 1 posted 10 You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Background: Vaccine hesitancy and low immunization coverage remain major challenges among the Uyghur Turk community in Türkiye, compounded by linguistic, cultural, and socioeconomic barriers. The 2022 measles outbreak, which disproportionately affected Uyghur children, underscored the urgent need for targeted interventions. Methods: The project Promoting Awareness of Childhood Vaccines in the Uyghur Turk Community in Türkiye: A Health Education Intervention was implemented by university lecturers and involved two community-based educational sessions conducted in Istanbul and Konya in 2025, reaching 106 adult participants. Each session included pre- and post-tests, presentations integrating scientific and Islamic perspectives on vaccination, interactive discussions, and the distribution of culturally and linguistically tailored educational materials. Results: A total of 106 participants were included, with the majority aged 25–44 years (57.5%) and females representing 56.6%. The intervention substantially improved vaccine-related knowledge, perceptions, and trust. Belief in the necessity of childhood vaccines increased from 73.6% to 98.0%, confidence in vaccine safety rose from 63.2% to 93.1%, and awareness of herd immunity improved from 60.4% to 99.0%. Trust in the Ministry of Health’s vaccine decisions increased from 57.5% to 87.1%, while agreement that vaccination is permissible in Islam rose from 61.3% to 97.0%. Concerns about multiple vaccines, vaccine ingredients, and negative effects on child development decreased markedly. Remaining challenges included beliefs in natural immunity (20.8%), doubts about certain vaccines (11.9%), and concerns regarding long-term MMR vaccine effects (23.8%). Conclusion: Culturally and linguistically adapted health education that integrates scientific evidence with religious perspectives can effectively enhance vaccine knowledge, attitudes, and trust among underserved communities. Sustained community engagement, follow-up, and improved access to vaccination services are crucial to maintain these gains, offering a scalable model to address vaccine hesitancy among minority and migrant populations globally. Childhood vaccination Vaccine hesitancy Health education Uyghur Migrant health Introduction Vaccinations are among the most impactful public health interventions and represent one of the most cost-effective measures to improve population health[ 1 ]–[ 4 ] Vaccines provide a safe, simple, and highly effective means of protecting children’s health across the lifespan [ 5 ]. Immunization constitutes a fundamental pillar of primary health care, with vaccines serving a critical function in the prevention and control of infectious disease outbreaks, thereby protecting population health. Globally, immunization is estimated to avert 3.5 to 5 million deaths annually from diseases including diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, influenza, and measles [ 6 ]. The Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030) aims to ensure equitable access to vaccines, calling on all countries to reduce the number of zero-dose children by 50% by 2030 [ 7 ]. However, in 2024, the number of zero-dose children remained 1.4 million higher than in 2019 and approximately 4 million above the trajectory required to meet the IA2030 target of halving zero-dose children between 2019 and 2030[ 8 ]. Vaccine hesitancy is a widespread phenomenon worldwide, with the reasons for vaccine refusal varying across populations and contexts[ 9 ]–[ 11 ]. Previous studies have shown that multiple factors influence childhood vaccination. Demographic, social, and healthcare-related factors significantly contribute to vaccine hesitancy among parents[ 12 ]. High rates of parental vaccine hesitancy are particularly observed in specific populations, such as those in low-income settings, where limited access to information and resources restricts parents’ ability to make informed vaccination decisions[ 13 ]. A myriad of individual and societal factors influence vaccine attitudes, with religious beliefs frequently identified as a key driver of heightened hesitancy in certain populations[ 14 ]. In Saudi Arabia, parents frequently delay vaccinations for preschool-aged children, with the primary reasons linked to cultural rather than religious factors. These cultural influences play a significant role in shaping parental attitudes and decisions regarding delayed vaccination[ 15 ]. In Türkiye, vaccines included in the national immunization schedule are provided free of charge and administered at family health centers and designated hospitals[ 16 ]. In 2023, Türkey achieved high coverage rates for vaccines included in its national childhood immunization program. Reported rates were 96.0% for Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG), 98.8% for three doses of Hepatitis B, 95.2% for three doses of Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus (DaBT), 95.2% for Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), and 99.0% for the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) booster introduced in 2019. These findings indicate that Türkey has effectively met the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended threshold of ≥ 95% for childhood immunization coverage[ 17 ]. However, as in many other countries, Türkiye faces challenges related to vaccine hesitancy, which has been identified as a growing public health concern[ 11 ], [ 18 ]–[ 20 ] In addition, the presence of a large migrant population presents further challenges for vaccination efforts, Since 2015, Türkiye has hosted the world’s largest registered refugee population, with more than 4 million refugees and asylum-seekers. Of these, nearly 1.7 million are children[ 21 ]. Globally, ensuring access to vaccination for migrant populations defined as individuals who relocate from their usual place of residence either within or across national borders[ 22 ] is essential for preventing and controlling infectious diseases and for improving health outcomes related to morbidity and mortality[ 23 ]. Health education plays a vital role in healthcare systems and holds significant potential to enhance global health[ 24 ]. Health education is a key instrument enabling societies and individuals to exercise their universal rights[ 25 ]. The Turkish and Uyghur Turk populations share a deep historical connection, reflected in common Turkic language, ethnicity, and cultural heritage, despite residing in different geographical regions. Many Uyghurs Turks have migrated to Türkiye, forming a growing diaspora whose integration has been facilitated by shared cultural and linguistic ties. This community often has larger families due to cultural, religious, and socio-economic factors. While maintaining family and cultural continuity, Uyghur families face challenges in healthcare, education, and economic opportunities, including low childhood vaccination rates, which pose risks to both community and public health. However, no studies have specifically examined childhood vaccination within this community. The aim of this study was to improve awareness, knowledge, and uptake of childhood vaccinations among Uyghur families in Türkiye by addressing cultural, linguistic, and trust-related barriers. The study seeks to empower families with culturally appropriate information and support, thereby increasing vaccination coverage and reducing the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases within both the Uyghur community and the broader population. Material and methods Study Design This study employed a health education intervention to improve awareness, knowledge, and uptake of childhood vaccinations among the Uyghur community in Türkiye. The intervention combined scientific information on vaccines with culturally and religiously tailored content. Study Location and Participants Two community health education sessions were conducted: in Istanbul on 26 July 2025 and in Konya on 3 August 2025, reaching a total of 106 adult participants. Health Education Delivery and Materials The sessions were conducted in the Uyghur language by a Uyghur public health specialist, with Islamic perspectives on vaccination provided by a Uyghur Islamic scholar. Educational materials, including brochures, vaccination schedules, and children’s coloring books, were prepared in Uyghur language, and an animated video was developed for broader dissemination. The health education program covered general information on childhood vaccination, the Turkish national immunization program, and addressed common concerns regarding vaccines from both scientific and religious perspectives. Pre- and Post-Test Assessments Before administering the pre-test, participants were informed of its purpose and given sufficient time to complete it. Once completed, volunteer college students immediately collected the questionnaires. The pre-test consisted of two sections: the first collected participants’ sociodemographic information, and the second assessed knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes toward childhood vaccination. Following the health education session and the interactive question-and-answer segment, participants completed the post-test, which included only one section on vaccine knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes, and was collected immediately upon completion. Both pre- and post-tests were prepared in the Uyghur language and comprised identical questions, except for one item. In the pre-test, participants were asked, “Have you ever delayed or skipped a vaccine recommended by your child’s doctor?” In the post-test, this item was rephrased as, “After this session, would you vaccinate your child with a vaccine recommended by your child’s doctor?” All questions were developed by the researchers and offered three response options: “yes,” “no,” and “not sure.” This approach allowed assessment of baseline knowledge and attitudes, as well as immediate changes following the educational intervention. Assessment Measures The pre- and post-tests evaluated participants’ understanding of vaccine safety, efficacy, recommended schedules, and religious perspectives supporting vaccination. Changes in scores were used to assess the effectiveness of the health education intervention. Ethics Approval and Consent to Participate This study was conducted in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Ethical approval for the project was obtained from the Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee (Ref: 04/1222). Before data collection, the purpose of the study was explained to all participants, and those who voluntarily agreed to participate provided written informed consent by completing a consent form. Statistical analysis Pre- and post-test data were analyzed using SPSS software. Results were compared using percentages and the test to assess statistical significance Results Table 1. presents the demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the 106 participants in the study. The age of participants ranged from 18 to 69 years, with a mean age of 38.1+/-11.6, the majority were aged between 25 and 44 years (57.5%), with females comprising 56.6% of the sample. Most participants were married (81.1%) and nearly one-quarter reported having no children (23.6%), among the 81 participants who provided information on the number of children, the average number of children was 4.1 (SD = 2.1), ranging from 1 to 9 children per participant. Educational backgrounds varied, with 44.3% holding a college or university degree. Uyghur was the predominant language spoken (74.5%), and the majority had lived in Türkiye for 6 to 10 years (70.8%). Employment status was diverse, with 45.3% unemployed and 31.1% employed full-time. Over half of the participants (53.8%) reported income equal to their expenditure, and most resided in İstanbul (54.7%). A large proportion had health insurance coverage (77.4%), though only 18.9% had received health education. Table 1. Socio-demographic Characteristics of Participants Variable Category Frequency (n) Percentage (%) Age Group 18-24 14 13.2 25-34 31 29.2 35-44 30 28.3 45-54 23 21.7 55 and above 8 7.5 Gender Male 46 43.4 Female 60 56.6 Marital Status Single 13 12.3 Married 86 81.1 Widowed 6 5.7 Divorced 1 0.9 Number of Children No children (missing) 25 23.6 1-2 20 18.9 3-4 33 31.1 5 and more 28 26.4 Education Background No formal education 1 0.9 Primary school 9 8.5 Secondary school 14 13.2 High school 16 15.1 Vocational training 8 7.5 College/University degree 47 44.3 Graduate degree 11 10.4 Speaking Language Uyghur 79 74.5 Mixed (Uyghur and Turkish) 27 25.5 Duration in Türkiye 1-5 years 7 6.6 6-10 years 75 70.8 11-15 years 19 17.9 16 years and above 5 4.7 Employment Status Employed full-time 33 31.1 Employed part-time 25 23.6 Unemployed 48 45.3 Income Income less than expenditure 17 16.0 Income equal to expenditure 57 53.8 Income more than expenditure 6 5.7 No stable income 26 24.5 City İstanbul 58 54.7 Konya 48 45.3 Health Insurance Yes 82 77.4 No 24 22.6 Health Education Yes 20 18.9 No 86 81.1 Participants’ responses to 21 pre-test questions assessing knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about childhood vaccines (N=106). Most participants (73.6%) believe childhood vaccines offered in Türkiye are necessary to keep children healthy, and 63.2% trust the safety of vaccines in the national schedule. However, vaccine hesitancy is evident, with 31.1% reporting having delayed or skipped vaccines and 68.9% expressing concern about multiple vaccines during a single visit. Around one-third of respondents reported uncertainty or distrust in vaccine safety, testing, and potential side effects. Religious considerations also influence perceptions, with over 60% believing vaccination is permissible in Islam. Overall, the data reflect a mix of confidence, concerns, and knowledge gaps regarding childhood immunization among participants (Table 2). Table 2. Participants’ Responses to Pre-Test Questions on Childhood Vaccines (N = 106) No Question Summary Yes n ( %) No n ( %) Not Sure n ( %) 1 Do you think childhood vaccines offered in Türkiye are necessary to keep children healthy? 78 (73.6) 8 (7.5) 20 (18.9) 2 Are you confident that the vaccines in the national schedule are safe for your child? 67 (63.2) 8 (7.5) 31 (29.2) 3 Have you ever delayed or skipped a vaccine recommended by your child’s doctor? 33 (31.1) 56 (52.8) 17 (16.0) 4 Do you believe some childhood vaccines are given too early in life? 25 (23.6) 53 (50.0) 28 (26.4) 5 Are you concerned about giving multiple vaccines during a single visit? 73 (68.9) 24 (22.6) 9 (8.5) 6 Do you think some childhood diseases (like measles or mumps) are not serious enough to need vaccines? 15 (14.2) 70 (66.0) 21 (19.8) 7 Are you worried that the MMR vaccine might cause long-term problems? 33 (31.1) 43 (40.6) 30 (28.3) 8 Do you believe that natural infection builds stronger immunity than vaccination? 29 (27.4) 39 (36.8) 38 (35.8) 9 Do you feel you have enough information about what each vaccine protects against? 23 (21.7) 62 (58.5) 21 (19.8) 10 Are you concerned about the ingredients used in childhood vaccines? 56 (52.8) 34 (32.1) 16 (15.1) 11 Do you trust the Ministry of Health's decisions about vaccines for children? 61 (57.5) 14 (13.2) 31 (29.2) 12 Do you think vaccines are tested carefully before being given to children? 47 (44.3) 10 (9.4) 49 (46.2) 13 Do you believe your child’s immune system can handle all the recommended vaccines? 40 (37.7) 19 (17.9) 47 (44.3) 14 Are you worried that childhood vaccines might affect your child’s development? 51 (48.1) 40 (37.7) 15 (14.2) 15 Do you trust your family doctor or pediatrician when they recommend vaccines? 76 (71.7) 9 (8.5) 21 (19.8) 16 Do you believe some vaccines, like Hepatitis B, are not necessary for babies? 22 (20.8) 55 (51.9) 29 (27.4) 17 Have you heard negative stories about vaccines from people around you or on social media? 80 (75.5) 23 (21.7) 3 (2.8) 18 Are you open to talking to a healthcare professional if you have doubts about vaccines? 66 (62.3) 28 (26.4) 12 (11.3) 19 Do you believe that getting your child vaccinated helps protect other children in the community? 64 (60.4) 10 (9.4) 32 (30.2) 20 It is permissible to take the vaccine in Islam? 65 (61.3) 3 (2.8) 38 (35.8) 21 According to Islam, Not vaccinating your child is putting him and other children at risk and infringing on the rights of others. 58 (54.7) 16 (15.1) 32 (30.2) Table 3 presents participants’ responses to post-test questions on childhood vaccines (N = 106). The vast majority acknowledged the necessity of childhood vaccines in Türkiye (98.0%) and expressed confidence in vaccine safety (93.1%). Most participants (98.0%) indicated willingness to vaccinate their child following the session. Concerns about vaccine timing, ingredients, and potential developmental effects were low, with less than 20% expressing worry. Trust in healthcare providers and the Ministry of Health was high, exceeding 87%. Religious acceptance of vaccination was strong, with over 97% affirming its permissibility in Islam. Despite widespread exposure to negative vaccine information via social media (92.1%), over 90% remained open to consulting healthcare professionals. Overall, responses indicate strong support and improved attitudes toward childhood vaccination among participants after the educational session. Table 3. Participants’ Responses to Post-Test Questions on Childhood Vaccines (N = 106) No Question Summary Yes n (%) No n ( %) Not Sure n (%) 1 Do you think childhood vaccines offered in Türkiye are necessary to keep children healthy? 99 (98.0) 2 (2.0) - 2 Are you confident that the vaccines in the national schedule are safe for your child? 94 (93.1) 2 (2.0) 5 (5.0) 3 After this session, would you vaccinate your child with a vaccine recommended by your child’s doctor? 99 (98.0) 1 (1.0) 1 (1.0) 4 Do you believe some childhood vaccines are given too early in life? 12 (11.9) 83 (82.2) 6 (5.9) 5 Are you concerned about giving multiple vaccines during a single visit? 18 (17.8) 79 (78.2) 4 (4.0) 6 Do you think some childhood diseases (like measles or mumps) are not serious enough to need vaccines? 4 (4.0%) 96 (95.0%) 1 (1.0%) 7 Are you worried that the MMR vaccine might cause long-term problems? 24 (23.8) 71 (70.3) 6 (5.9) 8 Do you believe that natural infection builds stronger immunity than vaccination? 21 (20.8) 71 (70.3) 9 (8.9) 9 Do you feel you have enough information about what each vaccine protects against? 78 (77.2) 19 (18.8) 4 (4.0) 10 Are you concerned about the ingredients used in childhood vaccines? 10 (9.9) 88 (87.1) 3 (3.0) 11 Do you trust the Ministry of Health's decisions about vaccines for children? 88 (87.1) 6 (5.9) 7 (6.9) 12 Do you think vaccines are tested carefully before being given to children? 95 (94.1) 1 (1.0) 5 (5.0) 13 Do you believe your child’s immune system can handle all the recommended vaccines? 89 (88.1) 3 (3.0) 9 (8.9) 14 Are you worried that childhood vaccines might affect your child’s development? 12 (11.9) 87 (86.1) 2 (2.0) 15 Do you trust your family doctor or pediatrician when they recommend vaccines? 96 (95.0) 2 (2.0) 3 (3.0) 16 Do you believe some vaccines, like Hepatitis B, are not necessary for babies? 12 (11.9) 86 (85.1) 3 (3.0) 17 Have you heard negative stories about vaccines from people around you or on social media? 93 (92.1) 7 (6.9) 1 (1.0) 18 Are you open to talking to a healthcare professional if you have doubts about vaccines? 91 (90.1) 8 (7.9) 2 (2.0) 19 Do you believe that getting your child vaccinated helps protect other children in the community? 100 (99.0) - 1 (1.0) 20 It is permissible to take the vaccine in Islam? 98 (97.0) 2 (2.0) 1 (1.0) 21 According to Islam, Not vaccinating your child is putting him and other children at risk and infringing on the rights of others. 88 (87.1) 7 (6.9) 6 (5.9) The community-based health education intervention resulted in substantial positive changes in participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs regarding childhood vaccination. Perceived necessity of childhood vaccines rose from 73.6% to 98.0%, and confidence in vaccine safety increased from 63.2% to 93.1%. Trust in the Ministry of Health’s vaccine decisions improved markedly (57.5% to 87.1%), alongside greater trust in recommendations from family doctors and pediatricians (71.7% to 95.0%). Concerns about vaccine ingredients dropped sharply (52.8% to 9.9%), fears about giving multiple vaccines during a single visit decreased (68.9% to 17.8%), and worries about potential developmental side effects were significantly reduced (48.1% to 11.9%). Vaccine hesitancy indicators showed a dramatic improvement. Before the intervention, 31.1% reported having delayed or skipped a recommended vaccine; after the session, only 2% expressed unwillingness or uncertainty about vaccinating their child. Understanding of vaccination’s role in protecting the community (herd immunity) increased from 60.4% to 99.0%. Acceptance of vaccination within an Islamic framework rose from 61.3% to 97.0%, while the ethical belief that refusing vaccination infringes on the rights of others increased from 54.7% to 87.1%. The intervention also strengthened participants’ resilience to misinformation, with awareness of vaccine-related false narratives rising from 75.5% to 92.1%, and improved their readiness to consult healthcare professionals when in doubt (62.3% to 90.1%). While certain misconceptions persisted—such as the belief in the superiority of natural infection (27.4% to 20.8%) and doubts about the necessity of specific vaccines like Hepatitis B (20.8% to 11.9%)—the overall outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of culturally tailored, participatory education in enhancing vaccine acceptance, building trust in health authorities, and addressing misinformation within the community. (Table 4). Table 4. Pre- and Post-Intervention Changes in Vaccine-Related Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs Among participants No Question Pre-Test “Yes” Post-Test “Yes” Difference (pre-post) Yates χ² McNemar p-value 1 Do you think childhood vaccines offered in Türkiye are necessary to keep children healthy? 73.6% 98.0% +24.4 22.99 0.000 2 Are you confident that the vaccines in the national schedule are safe for your child? 63.2% 93.1% +29.9 24.98 0.000 3 Have you ever delayed or skipped a vaccine recommended by your child’s doctor? (Pre- test). *After this session, would you vaccinate your child with a vaccine recommended by your child’s doctor? (post –test) 31.1% 2.0%* −29.1 97.28 0.056 4 Do you believe some childhood vaccines are given too early in life? 23.6% 11.9% −11.7 4.06 0.000 5 Are you concerned about giving multiple vaccines during a single visit? 68.9% 17.8% −51.1 52.65 0.049 6 Do you think some childhood diseases (like measles or mumps) are not serious enough to need vaccines? 14.2% 4.0% −10.2 5.28 0.000 7 Are you worried that the MMR vaccine might cause long-term problems? 31.1% 23.8% −7.3 1.06 0.000 8 Do you believe that natural infection builds stronger immunity than vaccination? 27.4% 20.8% −6.6 0.89 0.000 9 Do you feel you have enough information about what each vaccine protects against? 21.7% 77.2% +55.5 61.63 0.753 10 Are you concerned about the ingredients used in childhood vaccines? 52.8% 9.9% −42.9 41.93 0.000 11 Do you trust the Ministry of Health's decisions about vaccines for children? 57.5% 87.1% +29.6 21.00 0.000 12 Do you think vaccines are tested carefully before being given to children? 44.3% 94.1% +49.8 57.07 0.005 13 Do you believe your child’s immune system can handle all the recommended vaccines? 37.7% 88.1% +50.4 53.78 0.077 14 Are you worried that childhood vaccines might affect your child’s development? 48.1% 11.9% −36.2 30.38 0.000 15 Do you trust your family doctor or pediatrician when they recommend vaccines? 71.7% 95.0% +23.3 18.45 0.000 16 Do you believe some vaccines, like Hepatitis B, are not necessary for babies? 20.8% 11.9% −8.9 2.36 0.000 17 Have you heard negative stories about vaccines from people around you or on social media? 75.5% 92.1% +16.6 9.22 0.000 18 Are you open to talking to a healthcare professional if you have doubts about vaccines? 62.3% 90.1% +27.8 20.38 0.000 19 Do you believe that getting your child vaccinated helps protect other children in the community? 60.4% 99.0% +38.6 44.58 0.000 20 It is permissible to take the vaccine in Islam? 61.3% 97.0% +35.7 37.30 0.000 21 According to Islam, Not vaccinating your child is putting him and other children at risk and infringing on the rights of others. 54.7% 87.1% +32.4 24.61 0.001 Note: For Question 3, the pre- and post-test items differ Discussion This study examined the effectiveness of a culturally tailored health education intervention in improving awareness and addressing barriers to childhood vaccination within the Uyghur Turk community in Türkiye. The findings demonstrate that the intervention significantly enhanced participants’ knowledge about the benefits and safety of vaccines, reduced misconceptions, and improved trust in healthcare providers and public health authorities. These results highlight the value of community-based approaches in tackling vaccine hesitancy among migrant and minority groups. Our findings are consistent with previous research showing that culturally and linguistically sensitive interventions are effective in reducing vaccine hesitancy[26]–[28] Studies conducted among different populations have similarly emphasized the importance of engaging community leaders, adapting educational materials to local languages[29],[14]. Religious beliefs strongly influence vaccination choices [30], [31]. In line with this evidence, the present intervention was able to address key barriers, such as misconceptions about vaccine safety and doubts about religious permissibility, which had previously hindered vaccine uptake in this community. An important aspect of this study was the integration of social, cultural, and religious perspectives into the educational sessions. By working closely with Uyghur NGOs, community leaders, and healthcare professionals, the intervention built trust and created a safe environment for open dialogue. This participatory approach not only improved knowledge but also fostered confidence in health authorities an essential factor for promoting vaccine acceptance. These findings reinforce the notion that top-down public health campaigns may be less effective in immigrant or minority populations unless they are complemented by bottom-up, community-driven strategies. The public health implications of this study are significant. Increasing awareness of childhood vaccination is crucial for maintaining high immunization coverage and preventing outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. The intervention also contributes to Türkiye’s broader efforts to integrate migrant and minority populations into national health strategies. Given the growing diversity of societies worldwide, the success of this initiative suggests that similar community-based interventions could be adapted for other immigrant or minority groups facing barriers to vaccination. Strengthen and Limitations This study has several strengths, including its pioneering focus on the Uyghur Turk community in Türkiye, strong collaboration with local NGOs and stakeholders, and active participation from community members. However, some limitations should be acknowledged. The study was conducted within a limited geographic area, which may restrict the generalizability of the findings. The evaluation relied on self-reported knowledge and attitudes, which may be subject to recall or social desirability bias. Additionally, the study measured awareness and perceptions but did not assess actual vaccination uptake, which should be examined in future research. Conclusion The health education intervention substantially improved knowledge, perceptions of vaccine safety, and acceptance among the Uyghur community in Türkiye, including understanding of the religious permissibility of vaccination. Trust in healthcare providers and public health authorities increased, while concerns regarding vaccine side effects decreased. Despite these improvements, persistent misconceptions such as beliefs in natural immunity, skepticism toward specific vaccines, and concerns about long-term safety underscore the complexity of vaccine hesitancy in this population. Engagement of trusted community figures, including local leaders, religious scholars, and Uyghur healthcare professionals, was critical in delivering culturally relevant and credible messages. These findings highlight the importance of sustained, community-centered educational interventions, integration with health system strengthening, and improved accessibility to vaccination services for achieving long-term increases in vaccine uptake. The approach may serve as a model for addressing vaccine hesitancy among other minority and migrant populations globally. Recommendations Promoting childhood vaccination in Uyghur communities in Türkiye requires ongoing, culturally tailored strategies. Regular community-based education programs and development of materials in the Uyghur language are essential, alongside active engagement of religious and community leaders to build trust and address misconceptions. Enhancing access through mobile clinics and culturally competent healthcare services, combined with continuous monitoring and evaluation, can further strengthen vaccination uptake. Effective collaboration between international organizations, local health authorities, and academic institutions is critical to ensure coordinated and sustainable public health interventions. Declarations Acknowledgments We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Uyghur NGOs in Istanbul and Konya for supporting this study by providing venues for the educational sessions and facilitating community engagement. We extend special thanks to the Uyghur community members who attended the health education sessions and participated in the study. Author Contributions NMO, MEG, EÜ, and SM designed the study. NMO, MEG, EÜ, AB, MAB, RK, and NO contributed to the preparation of health education materials and the delivery of health education. NMO, MEG, EÜ, and NO conducted the statistical analysis. NMO, MEG, and EÜ drafted the manuscript. All authors reviewed and approved the final version of the paper. Funding No financial support Conflict interest No conflict interest References Boccalini S. Value of Vaccinations: A Fundamental Public Health Priority to Be Fully Evaluated. Vaccines. 2025;13(5). 10.3390/vaccines13050479 . Ozawa S, Mirelman A, Stack ML, Walker DG, Levine OS. Cost-effectiveness and economic benefits of vaccines in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review. Vaccine. 2012;31(1):96–108. 10.1016/j.vaccine.2012.10.103 . Alkoshi S, Orhun NM, Dahlui M. Cost-effectiveness analysis of rotavirus vaccination among Libyan children using a simple economic model. Libyan J Med. 2014;9(1). 10.3402/ljm.v9.26236 . Aljunid S, et al. Economic Impact of Pneumococcal Protein-D Conjugate Vaccine (PHiD-CV) on the Malaysian National Immunization Programme. Value Heal Reg Issues. 2014;3(1). 10.1016/j.vhri.2014.04.008 . UNICEF. Vaccines are the safest way to protect child’s health throughout life, UNICEF , 2022. https://www.unicef.org/northmacedonia/vaccines-are-safest-way-protect-childs-health-throughout-life (accessed Sep. 15, 2025). WHO. Vaccines and immunization, WHO , 2025. https://www.who.int/health-topics/vaccines-and-immunization#tab=tab_1 (accessed Sep. 12, 2025). World Health Organization. EB154/9 Immunization Agenda 2030 Progress towards global immunization goals and implementation of, 2023. UNICEF. Progress and chanllenges with achieving Universal immunization coverage 20223, 2024. Savrun E, Hang S, Ç. İ. İ, Büyüyen N, Da YA, Zulüm K. the Uyghur Turks and the Eastern Turkistan (Xinjiang Conflict): Which China ? China ’ S Growth or Red Cruelty, pp. 0–1, 2019. The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health. Vaccine hesitancy: a generation at risk. Lancet Child Adolesc Heal. May 2019;3(5):281. 10.1016/S2352-4642(19)30092-6 . ÖZLEM A, A. ÖZLEM M, KOÇAK, MEHMET N. Prevalence of Turkish Parent Refusal and Hesitance Rate and Its Associated Factors in Childhood Vaccination, J. Sains Kesihat. Malaysia , vol. 20, no. 2, pp. 11–22, Jul. 2022, 10.17576/JSKM-2022-2002-02 Ali Alotaibi N, Abdullah Alhumyani R, Ahmed Ali Alqahtani B, Alkhaldi NJ, Alkhaldi J. Factors Influencing Childhood Vaccination Hesitancy Among Parents in Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Review, J. Pioneer. Med. Sci. , vol. 14, no. Special Issue 1, pp. 108–118, Apr. 2025, 10.47310/jpms202514S0115 Cagnotta C et al. Feb., Parental vaccine hesitancy: Recent evidences support the need to implement targeted communication strategies, J. Infect. Public Health , vol. 18, no. 2, p. 102648, 2025, 10.1016/j.jiph.2024.102648 Tiwana MH, Smith J. Faith and vaccination: a scoping review of the relationships between religious beliefs and vaccine hesitancy. BMC Public Health. Jul. 2024;24(1):1806. 10.1186/s12889-024-18873-4 . Hindi Albalawi HM, Rezq KA. Influences of Cultural Factors on Vaccination Practices Among Parents Prior to School Age: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis, Cureus , vol. 16, no. 12, pp. 1–20, Dec. 2024, 10.7759/cureus.75845 Ministry of T, Health. Turkey’s National Immunization Program ​, Turkey’s National Immunization Program ​ , 2025. https://covid19asi.saglik.gov.tr/EN-78312/general-information.html (accessed Sep. 16, 2025). UNICEF TSIA. TÜRKİYE ’ DEKİ ÇOCUKLAR 2024, 2024. Kılınç Z, Beycur S, Işık. Exploring Vaccine Hesitancy Levels Among Turkish Parents in 2024 After Pandemic; Key Influencing Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study, Int. J. Clin. Pract. , vol. 2025, no. 1, Jan. 2025. 10.1155/ijcp/5511192 Özceylan G, Toprak D, Esen ES. Vaccine rejection and hesitation in Turkey. Hum Vaccin Immunother. May 2020;16(5):1034–9. 10.1080/21645515.2020.1717182 . Soysal G, Durukan E, Akdur R. The Evaluation of Vaccine Hesitancy and Refusal for Childhood Vaccines and the COVID-19 Vaccine in Individuals Aged Between 18 and 25 Years, Turkish J. Immunol. , vol. 9, no. 3, pp. 120–127, Dec. 2021, 10.4274/tji.galenos.2021.35229 UNICEF. Humanitarian Action for Children (HAC), UNICEF , Türkiye, 2019. https://www.unicef.org/turkiye/en/humanitarian-action-children-hac (accessed Sep. 17, 2025). International Organization for Migration (IOM). International Migration Law 34 - Glossary on Migration. Switzerland, 2019. WHO. Ensuring the integration of refugees and migrants in immunization policies, planning and service delivery globally. in Global Evidence Review on Health and Migration (GEHM) series. Switzerland: World Health Organization; 2022. Rizvi DS. Health education and global health. J Educ Health Promot. Jan. 2022;11(1):262. 10.4103/jehp.jehp_218_22 . García-Toledano E, López-Parra E, Cebrián-Martínez A, Palomares-Ruiz A. The Need for Health Education and Vaccination—Importance of Teacher Training and Family Involvement. Healthcare. Jan. 2022;10(1):110. 10.3390/healthcare10010110 . Majekodunmi P, Tulli-Shah M, Kemei J, Kayode I, Maduforo AN, Salami B. Interventions employed to address vaccine hesitancy among Black populations outside of African and Caribbean countries: a scoping review, BMC Public Health , vol. 24, no. 1, p. 3147, Nov. 2024, 10.1186/s12889-024-20641-3 Correia T et al. Aug., Policy recommendations for healthcare authorities, organizations and professionals on vaccine hesitancy in Europe: From evidence to practice, Health Policy (New. York). , vol. 158, p. 105361, 2025, 10.1016/j.healthpol.2025.105361 Streuli S et al. Sep., Development of a culturally and linguistically sensitive virtual reality educational platform to improve vaccine acceptance within a refugee population: the SHIFA community engagement-public health innovation programme, BMJ Open , vol. 11, no. 9, p. e051184, 2021, 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051184 Wong J, Lao C, Dino G, Donyaei R, Lui R, Huynh J. Vaccine Hesitancy among Immigrants: A Narrative Review of Challenges, Opportunities, and Lessons Learned. Vaccines. Apr. 2024;12(5):445. 10.3390/vaccines12050445 . Olivera-Figueroa LA, Unger A, Papastamatelou J, Zimbardo PG. A Time to Get Vaccinated? The Role of Time Perspective, Consideration of Future Consequences, Conspiracy Beliefs, Religious Faith, Gender, and Race on Intention to Vaccinate for COVID-19 in the United States. Int J Environ Res Public Health. Feb. 2023;20(4):3625. 10.3390/ijerph20043625 . Sarmiento PJD. Wounded healers: a call for spiritual care towards healthcare professionals in time of COVID-19 pandemic, J. Public Health (Bangkok). , vol. 43, no. 2, pp. e273–e274, Jun. 2021, 10.1093/pubmed/fdaa232 Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Published Journal Publication published 30 Jan, 2026 Read the published version in BMC Public Health → Version 1 posted Editorial decision: Revision requested 12 Jan, 2026 Reviews received at journal 21 Dec, 2025 Reviewers agreed at journal 14 Dec, 2025 Reviews received at journal 08 Nov, 2025 Reviewers agreed at journal 08 Nov, 2025 Reviewers invited by journal 05 Nov, 2025 Editor invited by journal 28 Oct, 2025 Editor assigned by journal 27 Oct, 2025 Submission checks completed at journal 27 Oct, 2025 First submitted to journal 24 Oct, 2025 You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. Our growing team is made up of researchers and industry professionals working together to solve the most critical problems facing scientific publishing. Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-7936992","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":545555678,"identity":"8093ffb1-e482-487e-977c-9c871c88284b","order_by":0,"name":"Nimetcan Mehmet Orhun","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA1ElEQVRIiWNgGAWjYNACHgYGfhCdUECsjgNALZINIC0GRGsBYgMQwUCMFnP204mPP8jY5RmfX5344YEBgzy/2AH8Wix7cjcbHOBJLja78XazBNBhhjNnJ+DXYnAgd5vEAR7mxG03zm4AaUkwuE1Iy/m3238c4KlP3Dzj7OYfxGm5kbsNGGKHEzfw924j0haQF87wHE+ccYN3m0WCgQQRfjmfu/FDZU91Yn//2c03f1TYyPNLE9ACBow9QEICrFKCCOVg8AOI+Q8Qq3oUjIJRMApGGgAAsGRKrjC6agkAAAAASUVORK5CYII=","orcid":"","institution":"Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Nimetcan","middleName":"Mehmet","lastName":"Orhun","suffix":""},{"id":545555679,"identity":"148b8a0f-9232-41a3-81d5-5c0e8e26f703","order_by":1,"name":"Mehmet Enes Gökler","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Mehmet","middleName":"Enes","lastName":"Gökler","suffix":""},{"id":545555680,"identity":"6eb91f06-fe5e-495a-a6ca-e3539db712c5","order_by":2,"name":"Egemen Ünal","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Egemen","middleName":"","lastName":"Ünal","suffix":""},{"id":545555681,"identity":"6c0a22c2-2f92-448e-baa1-332234766493","order_by":3,"name":"Alimcan Buğda","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Istanbul Medeniyet University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Alimcan","middleName":"","lastName":"Buğda","suffix":""},{"id":545555683,"identity":"9d1e2df2-7f38-4ea0-a96a-66895a781a73","order_by":4,"name":"Rena Karahan","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Turkish Ministry of National Education","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Rena","middleName":"","lastName":"Karahan","suffix":""},{"id":545555684,"identity":"c7e3d95f-905f-4467-aacc-06ecb28995dc","order_by":5,"name":"Nuresma Orhun","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"University of Health Science","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Nuresma","middleName":"","lastName":"Orhun","suffix":""},{"id":545555685,"identity":"9ffee645-7cfb-43e7-82f9-fc630797bd83","order_by":6,"name":"Mağfiret Abdulveli Bozlar","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"University of Health Science","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Mağfiret","middleName":"Abdulveli","lastName":"Bozlar","suffix":""},{"id":545555688,"identity":"bfd1032c-5132-4fd2-96e9-eb1bb5b45b1d","order_by":7,"name":"Salih Mollahaliloğlu","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Salih","middleName":"","lastName":"Mollahaliloğlu","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2025-10-24 05:38:25","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7936992/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-7936992/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[{"content":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-026-26432-2","type":"published","date":"2026-01-30T15:59:02+00:00"}],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":96060412,"identity":"3c5cdc84-5e7a-410b-a81e-d486b1f5f351","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-17 08:31:19","extension":"json","order_by":1,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":9671,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"84ab02348bee4c58948162196ea8ec7a.json","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7936992/v1/d5d5962589c0da2f9c947f4e.json"},{"id":96060413,"identity":"62539f59-46da-444b-8409-1f964cef7e6e","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-17 08:31:19","extension":"xml","order_by":2,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":121151,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"84ab02348bee4c58948162196ea8ec7a1enriched.xml","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7936992/v1/55d29096fbb89cb033204347.xml"},{"id":96060414,"identity":"e443c9d4-4d03-4f21-be81-d042cdcb1667","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-17 08:31:19","extension":"xml","order_by":3,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":120739,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"84ab02348bee4c58948162196ea8ec7a1structuring.xml","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7936992/v1/3280f158c37580d492bbd05f.xml"},{"id":96248751,"identity":"15742b5a-a8cd-4940-97dd-2ffb8f4643cd","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-19 07:29:07","extension":"html","order_by":4,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":129470,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"earlyproof.html","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7936992/v1/8e5c885506010a9ef0f38b59.html"},{"id":101690706,"identity":"cf4e64e8-f04a-4571-8684-c4b50128db37","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-02-02 16:07:56","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":1116384,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7936992/v1/5ee82206-7568-4434-9bc6-969956eacc96.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Promoting Awareness of Childhood Vaccines in the Uyghur Turk Community in Türkiye: A Heath Education Intervention","fulltext":[{"header":"Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eVaccinations are among the most impactful public health interventions and represent one of the most cost-effective measures to improve population health[\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR2 CR3\" citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e]\u0026ndash;[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e] Vaccines provide a safe, simple, and highly effective means of protecting children\u0026rsquo;s health across the lifespan [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e]. Immunization constitutes a fundamental pillar of primary health care, with vaccines serving a critical function in the prevention and control of infectious disease outbreaks, thereby protecting population health. Globally, immunization is estimated to avert 3.5 to 5\u0026nbsp;million deaths annually from diseases including diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, influenza, and measles [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e]. The Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030) aims to ensure equitable access to vaccines, calling on all countries to reduce the number of zero-dose children by 50% by 2030 [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e]. However, in 2024, the number of zero-dose children remained 1.4\u0026nbsp;million higher than in 2019 and approximately 4\u0026nbsp;million above the trajectory required to meet the IA2030 target of halving zero-dose children between 2019 and 2030[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eVaccine hesitancy is a widespread phenomenon worldwide, with the reasons for vaccine refusal varying across populations and contexts[\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR10\" citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e]\u0026ndash;[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e]. Previous studies have shown that multiple factors influence childhood vaccination. Demographic, social, and healthcare-related factors significantly contribute to vaccine hesitancy among parents[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e]. High rates of parental vaccine hesitancy are particularly observed in specific populations, such as those in low-income settings, where limited access to information and resources restricts parents\u0026rsquo; ability to make informed vaccination decisions[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e]. A myriad of individual and societal factors influence vaccine attitudes, with religious beliefs frequently identified as a key driver of heightened hesitancy in certain populations[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e]. In Saudi Arabia, parents frequently delay vaccinations for preschool-aged children, with the primary reasons linked to cultural rather than religious factors. These cultural influences play a significant role in shaping parental attitudes and decisions regarding delayed vaccination[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn T\u0026uuml;rkiye, vaccines included in the national immunization schedule are provided free of charge and administered at family health centers and designated hospitals[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e]. In 2023, T\u0026uuml;rkey achieved high coverage rates for vaccines included in its national childhood immunization program. Reported rates were 96.0% for Bacille Calmette-Gu\u0026eacute;rin (BCG), 98.8% for three doses of Hepatitis B, 95.2% for three doses of Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus (DaBT), 95.2% for Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), and 99.0% for the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) booster introduced in 2019. These findings indicate that T\u0026uuml;rkey has effectively met the World Health Organization\u0026rsquo;s (WHO) recommended threshold of \u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;95% for childhood immunization coverage[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e]. However, as in many other countries, T\u0026uuml;rkiye faces challenges related to vaccine hesitancy, which has been identified as a growing public health concern[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e], [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR19\" citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e]\u0026ndash;[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e] In addition, the presence of a large migrant population presents further challenges for vaccination efforts, Since 2015, T\u0026uuml;rkiye has hosted the world\u0026rsquo;s largest registered refugee population, with more than 4\u0026nbsp;million refugees and asylum-seekers. Of these, nearly 1.7\u0026nbsp;million are children[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e21\u003c/span\u003e]. Globally, ensuring access to vaccination for migrant populations defined as individuals who relocate from their usual place of residence either within or across national borders[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e22\u003c/span\u003e] is essential for preventing and controlling infectious diseases and for improving health outcomes related to morbidity and mortality[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHealth education plays a vital role in healthcare systems and holds significant potential to enhance global health[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e24\u003c/span\u003e]. Health education is a key instrument enabling societies and individuals to exercise their universal rights[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e25\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Turkish and Uyghur Turk populations share a deep historical connection, reflected in common Turkic language, ethnicity, and cultural heritage, despite residing in different geographical regions. Many Uyghurs Turks have migrated to T\u0026uuml;rkiye, forming a growing diaspora whose integration has been facilitated by shared cultural and linguistic ties. This community often has larger families due to cultural, religious, and socio-economic factors. While maintaining family and cultural continuity, Uyghur families face challenges in healthcare, education, and economic opportunities, including low childhood vaccination rates, which pose risks to both community and public health. However, no studies have specifically examined childhood vaccination within this community. The aim of this study was to improve awareness, knowledge, and uptake of childhood vaccinations among Uyghur families in T\u0026uuml;rkiye by addressing cultural, linguistic, and trust-related barriers. The study seeks to empower families with culturally appropriate information and support, thereby increasing vaccination coverage and reducing the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases within both the Uyghur community and the broader population.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Material and methods","content":"\u003cp\u003eStudy Design\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis study employed a health education intervention to improve awareness, knowledge, and uptake of childhood vaccinations among the Uyghur community in Türkiye. The intervention combined scientific information on vaccines with culturally and religiously tailored content.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStudy Location and Participants\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo community health education sessions were conducted: in Istanbul on 26 July 2025 and in Konya on 3 August 2025, reaching a total of 106 adult participants.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHealth Education Delivery and Materials\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sessions were conducted in the Uyghur language by a Uyghur public health specialist, with Islamic perspectives on vaccination provided by a Uyghur Islamic scholar. Educational materials, including brochures, vaccination schedules, and children’s coloring books, were prepared in Uyghur language, and an animated video was developed for broader dissemination. The health education program covered general information on childhood vaccination, the Turkish national immunization program, and addressed common concerns regarding vaccines from both scientific and religious perspectives.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePre- and Post-Test Assessments\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore administering the pre-test, participants were informed of its purpose and given sufficient time to complete it. Once completed, volunteer college students immediately collected the questionnaires. The pre-test consisted of two sections: the first collected participants’ sociodemographic information, and the second assessed knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes toward childhood vaccination. Following the health education session and the interactive question-and-answer segment, participants completed the post-test, which included only one section on vaccine knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes, and was collected immediately upon completion. Both pre- and post-tests were prepared in the Uyghur language and comprised identical questions, except for one item. In the pre-test, participants were asked, “Have you ever delayed or skipped a vaccine recommended by your child’s doctor?” In the post-test, this item was rephrased as, “After this session, would you vaccinate your child with a vaccine recommended by your child’s doctor?” All questions were developed by the researchers and offered three response options: “yes,” “no,” and “not sure.” This approach allowed assessment of baseline knowledge and attitudes, as well as immediate changes following the educational intervention.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAssessment Measures\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe pre- and post-tests evaluated participants’ understanding of vaccine safety, efficacy, recommended schedules, and religious perspectives supporting vaccination. Changes in scores were used to assess the effectiveness of the health education intervention.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEthics Approval and Consent to Participate\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis study was conducted in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Ethical approval for the project was obtained from the Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee (Ref: 04/1222). Before data collection, the purpose of the study was explained to all participants, and those who voluntarily agreed to participate provided written informed consent by completing a consent form.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStatistical analysis\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePre- and post-test data were analyzed using SPSS software. Results were compared using percentages and the test to assess statistical significance\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Results ","content":"\u003cp\u003eTable 1. presents the demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the 106 participants in the study. The age of participants ranged from 18 to 69 years, with a mean age of 38.1+/-11.6, the majority were aged between 25 and 44 years (57.5%), with females comprising 56.6% of the sample. Most participants were married (81.1%) and nearly one-quarter reported having no children (23.6%), among the 81 participants who provided information on the number of children, the average number of children was 4.1 (SD = 2.1), ranging from 1 to 9 children per participant. Educational backgrounds varied, with 44.3% holding a college or university degree. Uyghur was the predominant language spoken (74.5%), and the majority had lived in T\u0026uuml;rkiye for 6 to 10 years (70.8%). Employment status was diverse, with 45.3% unemployed and 31.1% employed full-time. Over half of the participants (53.8%) reported income equal to their expenditure, and most resided in İstanbul (54.7%). A large proportion had health insurance coverage (77.4%), though only 18.9% had received health education.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 1. Socio-demographic Characteristics of Participants\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVariable\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCategory\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrequency (n)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePercentage (%)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"5\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAge Group\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18-24\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25-34\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e31\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e35-44\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e45-54\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e55 and above\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGender\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMale\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e43.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFemale\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e60\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e56.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"4\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMarital Status\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSingle\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMarried\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e86\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e81.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWidowed\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDivorced\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"4\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNumber of Children\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo children (missing)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1-2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3-4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e31.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 and more\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"7\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEducation Background\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo formal education\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePrimary school\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSecondary school\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHigh school\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eVocational training\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCollege/University degree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e47\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e44.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGraduate degree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpeaking Language\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eUyghur\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e79\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e74.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMixed (Uyghur and Turkish)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"4\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDuration in T\u0026uuml;rkiye\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1-5 years\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6-10 years\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e75\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e70.8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11-15 years\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e19\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16 years and above\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEmployment Status\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEmployed full-time\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e31.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEmployed part-time\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eUnemployed\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e48\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e45.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"4\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIncome\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIncome less than expenditure\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16.0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIncome equal to expenditure\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e57\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e53.8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIncome more than expenditure\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo stable income\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCity\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eİstanbul\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e58\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e54.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eKonya\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e48\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e45.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHealth Insurance\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e82\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e77.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHealth Education\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e86\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e81.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eParticipants\u0026rsquo; responses to 21 pre-test questions assessing knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about childhood vaccines (N=106). Most participants (73.6%) believe childhood vaccines offered in T\u0026uuml;rkiye are necessary to keep children healthy, and 63.2% trust the safety of vaccines in the national schedule. However, vaccine hesitancy is evident, with 31.1% reporting having delayed or skipped vaccines and 68.9% expressing concern about multiple vaccines during a single visit. Around one-third of respondents reported uncertainty or distrust in vaccine safety, testing, and potential side effects. Religious considerations also influence perceptions, with over 60% believing vaccination is permissible in Islam. Overall, the data reflect a mix of confidence, concerns, and knowledge gaps regarding childhood immunization among participants (Table 2).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 2. Participants\u0026rsquo; Responses to Pre-Test Questions on Childhood Vaccines (N = 106)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNo\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuestion Summary\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYes\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003en ( %)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNo\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003en ( %)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot Sure n ( %)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you think childhood vaccines offered in T\u0026uuml;rkiye are necessary to keep children healthy?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e78 (73.6)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(7.5)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(18.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you confident that the vaccines in the national schedule are safe for your child?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e67 (63.2)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(7.5)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e31\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(29.2)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e3\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHave you ever delayed or skipped a vaccine recommended by your child\u0026rsquo;s doctor?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33 (31.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e56 (52.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(16.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e4\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you believe some childhood vaccines are given too early in life?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25 (23.6)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e53 (50.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(26.4)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e5\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you concerned about giving multiple vaccines during a single visit?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e73 (68.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24 (22.6)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(8.5)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e6\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you think some childhood diseases (like measles or mumps) are not serious enough to need vaccines?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15 (14.2)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e70 (66.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(19.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e7\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you worried that the MMR vaccine might cause long-term problems?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33 (31.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e43 (40.6)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(28.3)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e8\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you believe that natural infection builds stronger immunity than vaccination?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29 (27.4)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39 (36.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e38\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(35.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e9\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you feel you have enough information about what each vaccine protects against?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23 (21.7)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e62 (58.5)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(19.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e10\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you concerned about the ingredients used in childhood vaccines?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e56 (52.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34 (32.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(15.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e11\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you trust the Ministry of Health\u0026apos;s decisions about vaccines for children?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e61 (57.5)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14 (13.2)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e31\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(29.2)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e12\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you think vaccines are tested carefully before being given to children?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e47 (44.3)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10 (9.4)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e49\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(46.2)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e13\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you believe your child\u0026rsquo;s immune system can handle all the recommended vaccines?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e40 (37.7)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e19 (17.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e47\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(44.3)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e14\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you worried that childhood vaccines might affect your child\u0026rsquo;s development?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e51 (48.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e40 (37.7)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(14.2)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e15\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you trust your family doctor or pediatrician when they recommend vaccines?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e76 (71.7)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(8.5)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(19.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e16\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you believe some vaccines, like Hepatitis B, are not necessary for babies?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22 (20.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e55 (51.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(27.4)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e17\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHave you heard negative stories about vaccines from people around you or on social media?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e80 (75.5)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23 (21.7)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(2.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e18\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you open to talking to a healthcare professional if you have doubts about vaccines?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e66 (62.3)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28 (26.4)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(11.3)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e19\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you believe that getting your child vaccinated helps protect other children in the community?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e64 (60.4)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10 (9.4)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e32\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(30.2)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e20\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIt is permissible to take the vaccine in Islam?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e65 (61.3)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(2.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e38\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(35.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e21\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAccording to Islam, Not vaccinating your child is putting him and other children at risk and infringing on the rights of others.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e58 (54.7)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16 (15.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e32\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(30.2)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTable 3 presents participants\u0026rsquo; responses to post-test questions on childhood vaccines (N = 106). The vast majority acknowledged the necessity of childhood vaccines in T\u0026uuml;rkiye (98.0%) and expressed confidence in vaccine safety (93.1%). Most participants (98.0%) indicated willingness to vaccinate their child following the session. Concerns about vaccine timing, ingredients, and potential developmental effects were low, with less than 20% expressing worry. Trust in healthcare providers and the Ministry of Health was high, exceeding 87%. Religious acceptance of vaccination was strong, with over 97% affirming its permissibility in Islam. Despite widespread exposure to negative vaccine information via social media (92.1%), over 90% remained open to consulting healthcare professionals. Overall, responses indicate strong support and improved attitudes toward childhood vaccination among participants after the educational session.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 3. Participants\u0026rsquo; Responses to Post-Test Questions on Childhood Vaccines (N = 106)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNo\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuestion Summary\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYes\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003en (%)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNo\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003en ( %)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot Sure n (%)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you think childhood vaccines offered in T\u0026uuml;rkiye are necessary to keep children healthy?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e99 (98.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(2.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you confident that the vaccines in the national schedule are safe for your child?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e94 (93.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(2.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(5.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e3\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAfter this session, would you vaccinate your child with a vaccine recommended by your child\u0026rsquo;s doctor?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e99 (98.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(1.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(1.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e4\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you believe some childhood vaccines are given too early in life?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12 (11.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e83 (82.2)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6 (5.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e5\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you concerned about giving multiple vaccines during a single visit?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18 (17.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e79 (78.2)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4 (4.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e6\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you think some childhood diseases (like measles or mumps) are not serious enough to need vaccines?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4 (4.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e96 (95.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(1.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e7\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you worried that the MMR vaccine might cause long-term problems?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24 (23.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e71 (70.3)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(5.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e8\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you believe that natural infection builds stronger immunity than vaccination?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21 (20.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e71 (70.3)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(8.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e9\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you feel you have enough information about what each vaccine protects against?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e78 (77.2)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e19 (18.8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(4.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e10\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you concerned about the ingredients used in childhood vaccines?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10 (9.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88 (87.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(3.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e11\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you trust the Ministry of Health\u0026apos;s decisions about vaccines for children?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88 (87.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(5.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(6.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e12\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you think vaccines are tested carefully before being given to children?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e95 (94.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(1.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(5.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e13\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you believe your child\u0026rsquo;s immune system can handle all the recommended vaccines?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e89 (88.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(3.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(8.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e14\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you worried that childhood vaccines might affect your child\u0026rsquo;s development?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12 (11.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e87 (86.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(2.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e15\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you trust your family doctor or pediatrician when they recommend vaccines?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e96 (95.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(2.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(3.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e16\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you believe some vaccines, like Hepatitis B, are not necessary for babies?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12 (11.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e86 (85.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(3.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e17\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHave you heard negative stories about vaccines from people around you or on social media?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e93 (92.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(6.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(1.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e18\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you open to talking to a healthcare professional if you have doubts about vaccines?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e91 (90.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(7.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(2.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e19\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you believe that getting your child vaccinated helps protect other children in the community?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100 (99.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(1.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e20\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIt is permissible to take the vaccine in Islam?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e98 (97.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(2.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(1.0)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e21\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAccording to Islam, Not vaccinating your child is putting him and other children at risk and infringing on the rights of others.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88 (87.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(6.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(5.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe community-based health education intervention resulted in substantial positive changes in participants\u0026rsquo; knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs regarding childhood vaccination. Perceived necessity of childhood vaccines rose from 73.6% to 98.0%, and confidence in vaccine safety increased from 63.2% to 93.1%. Trust in the Ministry of Health\u0026rsquo;s vaccine decisions improved markedly (57.5% to 87.1%), alongside greater trust in recommendations from family doctors and pediatricians (71.7% to 95.0%). Concerns about vaccine ingredients dropped sharply (52.8% to 9.9%), fears about giving multiple vaccines during a single visit decreased (68.9% to 17.8%), and worries about potential developmental side effects were significantly reduced (48.1% to 11.9%). Vaccine hesitancy indicators showed a dramatic improvement. Before the intervention, 31.1% reported having delayed or skipped a recommended vaccine; after the session, only 2% expressed unwillingness or uncertainty about vaccinating their child. Understanding of vaccination\u0026rsquo;s role in protecting the community (herd immunity) increased from 60.4% to 99.0%. Acceptance of vaccination within an Islamic framework rose from 61.3% to 97.0%, while the ethical belief that refusing vaccination infringes on the rights of others increased from 54.7% to 87.1%. The intervention also strengthened participants\u0026rsquo; resilience to misinformation, with awareness of vaccine-related false narratives rising from 75.5% to 92.1%, and improved their readiness to consult healthcare professionals when in doubt (62.3% to 90.1%). While certain misconceptions persisted\u0026mdash;such as the belief in the superiority of natural infection (27.4% to 20.8%) and doubts about the necessity of specific vaccines like Hepatitis B (20.8% to 11.9%)\u0026mdash;the overall outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of culturally tailored, participatory education in enhancing vaccine acceptance, building trust in health authorities, and addressing misinformation within the community. (Table 4).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 4. Pre- and Post-Intervention Changes in Vaccine-Related Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs Among participants\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNo\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuestion\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePre-Test \u0026ldquo;Yes\u0026rdquo;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePost-Test \u0026ldquo;Yes\u0026rdquo;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDifference (pre-post)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYates \u0026chi;\u0026sup2;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMcNemar p-value\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you think childhood vaccines offered in T\u0026uuml;rkiye are necessary to keep children healthy?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e73.6%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e98.0%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e+24.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22.99\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you confident that the vaccines in the national schedule are safe for your child?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e63.2%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e93.1%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e+29.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24.98\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHave you ever delayed or skipped a vaccine recommended by your child\u0026rsquo;s doctor? (Pre- test).\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e*After this session, would you vaccinate your child with a vaccine recommended by your child\u0026rsquo;s doctor? (post \u0026ndash;test)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e31.1%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.0%*\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026minus;29.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97.28\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.056\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you believe some childhood vaccines are given too early in life?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23.6%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.9%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026minus;11.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.06\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you concerned about giving multiple vaccines during a single visit?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e68.9%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17.8%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026minus;51.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e52.65\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.049\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you think some childhood diseases (like measles or mumps) are not serious enough to need vaccines?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14.2%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.0%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026minus;10.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.28\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you worried that the MMR vaccine might cause long-term problems?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e31.1%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23.8%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026minus;7.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.06\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you believe that natural infection builds stronger immunity than vaccination?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27.4%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20.8%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026minus;6.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.89\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you feel you have enough information about what each vaccine protects against?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21.7%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e77.2%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e+55.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e61.63\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.753\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you concerned about the ingredients used in childhood vaccines?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e52.8%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.9%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026minus;42.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e41.93\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you trust the Ministry of Health\u0026apos;s decisions about vaccines for children?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e57.5%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e87.1%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e+29.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21.00\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you think vaccines are tested carefully before being given to children?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e44.3%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e94.1%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e+49.8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e57.07\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.005\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you believe your child\u0026rsquo;s immune system can handle all the recommended vaccines?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e37.7%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88.1%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e+50.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e53.78\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.077\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you worried that childhood vaccines might affect your child\u0026rsquo;s development?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e48.1%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.9%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026minus;36.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30.38\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you trust your family doctor or pediatrician when they recommend vaccines?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e71.7%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e95.0%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e+23.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18.45\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you believe some vaccines, like Hepatitis B, are not necessary for babies?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20.8%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.9%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026minus;8.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.36\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHave you heard negative stories about vaccines from people around you or on social media?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e75.5%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e92.1%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e+16.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.22\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAre you open to talking to a healthcare professional if you have doubts about vaccines?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e62.3%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e90.1%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e+27.8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20.38\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e19\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you believe that getting your child vaccinated helps protect other children in the community?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e60.4%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e99.0%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e+38.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e44.58\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIt is permissible to take the vaccine in Islam?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e61.3%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97.0%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e+35.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e37.30\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAccording to Islam, Not vaccinating your child is putting him and other children at risk and infringing on the rights of others.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e54.7%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e87.1%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e+32.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24.61\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.001\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eNote:\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u0026nbsp;For Question 3, the pre- and post-test items differ\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study examined the effectiveness of a culturally tailored health education intervention in improving awareness and addressing barriers to childhood vaccination within the Uyghur Turk community in Türkiye. The findings demonstrate that the intervention significantly enhanced participants’ knowledge about the benefits and safety of vaccines, reduced misconceptions, and improved trust in healthcare providers and public health authorities. These results highlight the value of community-based approaches in tackling vaccine hesitancy among migrant and minority groups.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur findings are consistent with previous research showing that culturally and linguistically sensitive interventions are effective in reducing vaccine hesitancy[26]–[28] Studies conducted among different populations have similarly emphasized the importance of engaging community leaders, adapting educational materials to local languages[29],[14]. Religious beliefs strongly influence vaccination choices [30], [31]. In line with this evidence, the present intervention was able to address key barriers, such as misconceptions about vaccine safety and doubts about religious permissibility, which had previously hindered vaccine uptake in this community.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn important aspect of this study was the integration of social, cultural, and religious perspectives into the educational sessions. By working closely with Uyghur NGOs, community leaders, and healthcare professionals, the intervention built trust and created a safe environment for open dialogue. This participatory approach not only improved knowledge but also fostered confidence in health authorities an essential factor for promoting vaccine acceptance. These findings reinforce the notion that top-down public health campaigns may be less effective in immigrant or minority populations unless they are complemented by bottom-up, community-driven strategies.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe public health implications of this study are significant. Increasing awareness of childhood vaccination is crucial for maintaining high immunization coverage and preventing outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. The intervention also contributes to Türkiye’s broader efforts to integrate migrant and minority populations into national health strategies. Given the growing diversity of societies worldwide, the success of this initiative suggests that similar community-based interventions could be adapted for other immigrant or minority groups facing barriers to vaccination.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStrengthen and Limitations\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis study has several strengths, including its pioneering focus on the Uyghur Turk community in Türkiye, strong collaboration with local NGOs and stakeholders, and active participation from community members. However, some limitations should be acknowledged. The study was conducted within a limited geographic area, which may restrict the generalizability of the findings. The evaluation relied on self-reported knowledge and attitudes, which may be subject to recall or social desirability bias. Additionally, the study measured awareness and perceptions but did not assess actual vaccination uptake, which should be examined in future research.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe health education intervention substantially improved knowledge, perceptions of vaccine safety, and acceptance among the Uyghur community in Türkiye, including understanding of the religious permissibility of vaccination. Trust in healthcare providers and public health authorities increased, while concerns regarding vaccine side effects decreased. Despite these improvements, persistent misconceptions such as beliefs in natural immunity, skepticism toward specific vaccines, and concerns about long-term safety underscore the complexity of vaccine hesitancy in this population. Engagement of trusted community figures, including local leaders, religious scholars, and Uyghur healthcare professionals, was critical in delivering culturally relevant and credible messages. These findings highlight the importance of sustained, community-centered educational interventions, integration with health system strengthening, and improved accessibility to vaccination services for achieving long-term increases in vaccine uptake. The approach may serve as a model for addressing vaccine hesitancy among other minority and migrant populations globally.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommendations\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u0026nbsp;Promoting childhood vaccination in Uyghur communities in Türkiye requires ongoing, culturally tailored strategies. Regular community-based education programs and development of materials in the Uyghur language are essential, alongside active engagement of religious and community leaders to build trust and address misconceptions. Enhancing access through mobile clinics and culturally competent healthcare services, combined with continuous monitoring and evaluation, can further strengthen vaccination uptake. Effective collaboration between international organizations, local health authorities, and academic institutions is critical to ensure coordinated and sustainable public health interventions.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcknowledgments\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Uyghur NGOs in Istanbul and Konya for supporting this study by providing venues for the educational sessions and facilitating community engagement. We extend special thanks to the Uyghur community members who attended the health education sessions and participated in the study.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor Contributions\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNMO, MEG, EÜ, and SM designed the study. NMO, MEG, EÜ, AB, MAB, RK, and NO contributed to the preparation of health education materials and the delivery of health education. NMO, MEG, EÜ, and NO conducted the statistical analysis. NMO, MEG, and EÜ drafted the manuscript. All authors reviewed and approved the final version of the paper.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo financial support\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConflict interest\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo conflict interest\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBoccalini S. Value of Vaccinations: A Fundamental Public Health Priority to Be Fully Evaluated. Vaccines. 2025;13(5). \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.3390/vaccines13050479\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/vaccines13050479\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOzawa S, Mirelman A, Stack ML, Walker DG, Levine OS. Cost-effectiveness and economic benefits of vaccines in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review. Vaccine. 2012;31(1):96\u0026ndash;108. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.vaccine.2012.10.103\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.vaccine.2012.10.103\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlkoshi S, Orhun NM, Dahlui M. Cost-effectiveness analysis of rotavirus vaccination among Libyan children using a simple economic model. Libyan J Med. 2014;9(1). \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.3402/ljm.v9.26236\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3402/ljm.v9.26236\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAljunid S, et al. Economic Impact of Pneumococcal Protein-D Conjugate Vaccine (PHiD-CV) on the Malaysian National Immunization Programme. Value Heal Reg Issues. 2014;3(1). \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.vhri.2014.04.008\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.vhri.2014.04.008\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUNICEF. Vaccines are the safest way to protect child\u0026rsquo;s health throughout life, \u003cem\u003eUNICEF\u003c/em\u003e, 2022. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://www.unicef.org/northmacedonia/vaccines-are-safest-way-protect-childs-health-throughout-life\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"https://www.unicef.org/northmacedonia/vaccines-are-safest-way-protect-childs-health-throughout-life\" targettype=\"URL\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (accessed Sep. 15, 2025).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWHO. Vaccines and immunization, \u003cem\u003eWHO\u003c/em\u003e, 2025. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://www.who.int/health-topics/vaccines-and-immunization#tab=tab_1\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"https://www.who.int/health-topics/vaccines-and-immunization#tab=tab_1\" targettype=\"URL\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (accessed Sep. 12, 2025).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWorld Health Organization. EB154/9 Immunization Agenda 2030 Progress towards global immunization goals and implementation of, 2023.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUNICEF. Progress and chanllenges with achieving Universal immunization coverage 20223, 2024.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSavrun E, Hang S, \u0026Ccedil;. İ. İ, B\u0026uuml;y\u0026uuml;yen N, Da YA, Zul\u0026uuml;m K. the Uyghur Turks and the Eastern Turkistan (Xinjiang Conflict): Which China ? China \u0026rsquo; S Growth or Red Cruelty, pp. 0\u0026ndash;1, 2019.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Lancet Child \u0026amp; Adolescent Health. Vaccine hesitancy: a generation at risk. Lancet Child Adolesc Heal. May 2019;3(5):281. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/S2352-4642(19)30092-6\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/S2352-4642(19)30092-6\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u0026Ouml;ZLEM A, A. \u0026Ouml;ZLEM M, KO\u0026Ccedil;AK, MEHMET N. Prevalence of Turkish Parent Refusal and Hesitance Rate and Its Associated Factors in Childhood Vaccination, \u003cem\u003eJ. Sains Kesihat. Malaysia\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 20, no. 2, pp. 11\u0026ndash;22, Jul. 2022, \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.17576/JSKM-2022-2002-02\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.17576/JSKM-2022-2002-02\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAli Alotaibi N, Abdullah Alhumyani R, Ahmed Ali Alqahtani B, Alkhaldi NJ, Alkhaldi J. Factors Influencing Childhood Vaccination Hesitancy Among Parents in Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Review, \u003cem\u003eJ. Pioneer. Med. Sci.\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 14, no. Special Issue 1, pp. 108\u0026ndash;118, Apr. 2025, \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.47310/jpms202514S0115\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.47310/jpms202514S0115\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCagnotta C et al. Feb., Parental vaccine hesitancy: Recent evidences support the need to implement targeted communication strategies, \u003cem\u003eJ. Infect. Public Health\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 18, no. 2, p. 102648, 2025, \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.jiph.2024.102648\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.jiph.2024.102648\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTiwana MH, Smith J. Faith and vaccination: a scoping review of the relationships between religious beliefs and vaccine hesitancy. BMC Public Health. Jul. 2024;24(1):1806. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1186/s12889-024-18873-4\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1186/s12889-024-18873-4\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHindi Albalawi HM, Rezq KA. Influences of Cultural Factors on Vaccination Practices Among Parents Prior to School Age: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis, \u003cem\u003eCureus\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 16, no. 12, pp. 1\u0026ndash;20, Dec. 2024, \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.7759/cureus.75845\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.7759/cureus.75845\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMinistry of T, Health. Turkey\u0026rsquo;s National Immunization Program ​, \u003cem\u003eTurkey\u0026rsquo;s National Immunization Program ​\u003c/em\u003e, 2025. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://covid19asi.saglik.gov.tr/EN-78312/general-information.html\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"https://covid19asi.saglik.gov.tr/EN-78312/general-information.html\" targettype=\"URL\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (accessed Sep. 16, 2025).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUNICEF TSIA. T\u0026Uuml;RKİYE \u0026rsquo; DEKİ \u0026Ccedil;OCUKLAR 2024, 2024.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKılın\u0026ccedil; Z, Beycur S, Işık. Exploring Vaccine Hesitancy Levels Among Turkish Parents in 2024 After Pandemic; Key Influencing Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study, \u003cem\u003eInt. J. Clin. Pract.\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 2025, no. 1, Jan. 2025. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1155/ijcp/5511192\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1155/ijcp/5511192\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u0026Ouml;zceylan G, Toprak D, Esen ES. Vaccine rejection and hesitation in Turkey. Hum Vaccin Immunother. May 2020;16(5):1034\u0026ndash;9. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1080/21645515.2020.1717182\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1080/21645515.2020.1717182\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSoysal G, Durukan E, Akdur R. The Evaluation of Vaccine Hesitancy and Refusal for Childhood Vaccines and the COVID-19 Vaccine in Individuals Aged Between 18 and 25 Years, \u003cem\u003eTurkish J. Immunol.\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 9, no. 3, pp. 120\u0026ndash;127, Dec. 2021, \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.4274/tji.galenos.2021.35229\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.4274/tji.galenos.2021.35229\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUNICEF. Humanitarian Action for Children (HAC), \u003cem\u003eUNICEF\u003c/em\u003e, T\u0026uuml;rkiye, 2019. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://www.unicef.org/turkiye/en/humanitarian-action-children-hac\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"https://www.unicef.org/turkiye/en/humanitarian-action-children-hac\" targettype=\"URL\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (accessed Sep. 17, 2025).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInternational Organization for Migration (IOM). International Migration Law 34 - Glossary on Migration. Switzerland, 2019.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWHO. Ensuring the integration of refugees and migrants in immunization policies, planning and service delivery globally. in Global Evidence Review on Health and Migration (GEHM) series. Switzerland: World Health Organization; 2022.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRizvi DS. Health education and global health. J Educ Health Promot. Jan. 2022;11(1):262. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.4103/jehp.jehp_218_22\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.4103/jehp.jehp_218_22\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGarc\u0026iacute;a-Toledano E, L\u0026oacute;pez-Parra E, Cebri\u0026aacute;n-Mart\u0026iacute;nez A, Palomares-Ruiz A. The Need for Health Education and Vaccination\u0026mdash;Importance of Teacher Training and Family Involvement. Healthcare. Jan. 2022;10(1):110. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.3390/healthcare10010110\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/healthcare10010110\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMajekodunmi P, Tulli-Shah M, Kemei J, Kayode I, Maduforo AN, Salami B. Interventions employed to address vaccine hesitancy among Black populations outside of African and Caribbean countries: a scoping review, \u003cem\u003eBMC Public Health\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 24, no. 1, p. 3147, Nov. 2024, \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1186/s12889-024-20641-3\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1186/s12889-024-20641-3\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCorreia T et al. Aug., Policy recommendations for healthcare authorities, organizations and professionals on vaccine hesitancy in Europe: From evidence to practice, \u003cem\u003eHealth Policy (New. York).\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 158, p. 105361, 2025, \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.healthpol.2025.105361\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.healthpol.2025.105361\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStreuli S et al. Sep., Development of a culturally and linguistically sensitive virtual reality educational platform to improve vaccine acceptance within a refugee population: the SHIFA community engagement-public health innovation programme, \u003cem\u003eBMJ Open\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 11, no. 9, p. e051184, 2021, \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051184\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051184\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWong J, Lao C, Dino G, Donyaei R, Lui R, Huynh J. Vaccine Hesitancy among Immigrants: A Narrative Review of Challenges, Opportunities, and Lessons Learned. Vaccines. Apr. 2024;12(5):445. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.3390/vaccines12050445\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/vaccines12050445\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOlivera-Figueroa LA, Unger A, Papastamatelou J, Zimbardo PG. A Time to Get Vaccinated? The Role of Time Perspective, Consideration of Future Consequences, Conspiracy Beliefs, Religious Faith, Gender, and Race on Intention to Vaccinate for COVID-19 in the United States. Int J Environ Res Public Health. Feb. 2023;20(4):3625. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.3390/ijerph20043625\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/ijerph20043625\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSarmiento PJD. Wounded healers: a call for spiritual care towards healthcare professionals in time of COVID-19 pandemic, \u003cem\u003eJ. Public Health (Bangkok).\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 43, no. 2, pp. e273\u0026ndash;e274, Jun. 2021, \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1093/pubmed/fdaa232\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1093/pubmed/fdaa232\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":true,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"bmc-public-health","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"pubh","sideBox":"Learn more about [BMC Public Health](http://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"https://www.editorialmanager.com/pubh/default.aspx","title":"BMC Public Health","twitterHandle":"@BMC_series","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"em","reportingPortfolio":"BMC Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Childhood vaccination, Vaccine hesitancy, Health education, Uyghur, Migrant health","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7936992/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-7936992/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBackground:\u003c/strong\u003e Vaccine hesitancy and low immunization coverage remain major challenges among the Uyghur Turk community in Türkiye, compounded by linguistic, cultural, and socioeconomic barriers. The 2022 measles outbreak, which disproportionately affected Uyghur children, underscored the urgent need for targeted interventions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethods:\u003c/strong\u003e The project Promoting Awareness of Childhood Vaccines in the Uyghur Turk Community in Türkiye:\u003cem\u003e \u003c/em\u003eA Health Education Intervention was implemented by university lecturers and involved two community-based educational sessions conducted in Istanbul and Konya in 2025, reaching 106 adult participants. Each session included pre- and post-tests, presentations integrating scientific and Islamic perspectives on vaccination, interactive discussions, and the distribution of culturally and linguistically tailored educational materials.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResults:\u003c/strong\u003e A total of 106 participants were included, with the majority aged 25–44 years (57.5%) and females representing 56.6%. The intervention substantially improved vaccine-related knowledge, perceptions, and trust. Belief in the necessity of childhood vaccines increased from 73.6% to 98.0%, confidence in vaccine safety rose from 63.2% to 93.1%, and awareness of herd immunity improved from 60.4% to 99.0%. Trust in the Ministry of Health’s vaccine decisions increased from 57.5% to 87.1%, while agreement that vaccination is permissible in Islam rose from 61.3% to 97.0%. Concerns about multiple vaccines, vaccine ingredients, and negative effects on child development decreased markedly. Remaining challenges included beliefs in natural immunity (20.8%), doubts about certain vaccines (11.9%), and concerns regarding long-term MMR vaccine effects (23.8%).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConclusion:\u003c/strong\u003e Culturally and linguistically adapted health education that integrates scientific evidence with religious perspectives can effectively enhance vaccine knowledge, attitudes, and trust among underserved communities. Sustained community engagement, follow-up, and improved access to vaccination services are crucial to maintain these gains, offering a scalable model to address vaccine hesitancy among minority and migrant populations globally.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Promoting Awareness of Childhood Vaccines in the Uyghur Turk Community in Türkiye: A Heath Education Intervention","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-11-17 08:31:14","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7936992/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"decision","content":"Revision requested","date":"2026-01-13T04:39:27+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2025-12-21T19:35:19+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"300817463512937127657452883889589708420","date":"2025-12-15T02:49:59+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2025-11-08T10:33:03+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"291095894133180985155932397667736801143","date":"2025-11-08T10:02:36+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2025-11-05T14:18:28+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvited","content":"","date":"2025-10-28T11:40:01+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2025-10-28T02:10:45+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2025-10-28T02:10:30+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"BMC Public Health","date":"2025-10-24T05:33:44+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"bmc-public-health","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"pubh","sideBox":"Learn more about [BMC Public Health](http://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"https://www.editorialmanager.com/pubh/default.aspx","title":"BMC Public Health","twitterHandle":"@BMC_series","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"em","reportingPortfolio":"BMC Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"78f9bf13-d538-41d1-848a-895520f9afec","owner":[],"postedDate":"November 17th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"published-in-journal","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-02-02T16:04:36+00:00","versionOfRecord":{"articleIdentity":"rs-7936992","link":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-026-26432-2","journal":{"identity":"bmc-public-health","isVorOnly":false,"title":"BMC Public Health"},"publishedOn":"2026-01-30 15:59:02","publishedOnDateReadable":"January 30th, 2026"},"versionCreatedAt":"2025-11-17 08:31:14","video":"","vorDoi":"10.1186/s12889-026-26432-2","vorDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-026-26432-2","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-7936992","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-7936992","identity":"rs-7936992","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}