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Knowledge, Attitudes, Behaviors, and Cultural Beliefs of Parents Regarding Polio Vaccination in Kabul, Afghanistan in 2025: A Cross-Sectional Study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Poliomyelitis (polio) remains an important public health concern despite major global progress toward eradication. The introduction of inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) and oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) has reduced polio cases worldwide; however, Afghanistan and Pakistan remain the only countries where wild poliovirus transmission continues. This KAP plays a critical role in childhood vaccination acceptance and completion. Objective: This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and cultural beliefs regarding polio vaccination among parents visiting Maiwand Hospital in Kabul, Afghanistan, and to identify factors associated with vaccination-related perceptions and behaviors. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 2025 among 384 parents attending the pediatric and immunization units of Maiwand Hospital in Kabul, Afghanistan. Participants were recruited using convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing parents' knowledge of polio and polio vaccination, attitudes, vaccination-related behaviors, and cultural beliefs. Frequencies and percentages were used to summarize the findings. Cross-tabulations and chi-square tests were also used for exploratory analyses of associations between selected participant characteristics and the study outcomes. Results: Among the 384 participants, 55.7% demonstrated excellent general knowledge of polio, while 79.4% demonstrated excellent knowledge of polio vaccination. A positive attitude was reported for 89.1% of participants, and 65.4% were classified as having excellent vaccination-related behaviors. Cultural beliefs were most commonly classified as moderate (49.0%), followed by weak (29.9%) and strong (21.1%) beliefs. Exploratory analyses also examined associations between selected demographic characteristics and the study outcomes. Conclusion: Parents visiting Maiwand Hospital demonstrated generally high knowledge and positive attitudes toward polio vaccination; however, socio-cultural factors and behavioral gaps may continue to influence vaccination behaviors. Strengthening community education, addressing misconceptions, improving healthcare communication, and ensuring accessible immunization services are essential for improving vaccination coverage and supporting polio eradication efforts in Afghanistan.

Source: Patient Preference and Adherence

DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s648097