Background of the Study
Childhood immunization is one of the most effective ways to protect children from preventable diseases, which are still a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in Nigeria. However, despite the availability of vaccines and immunization programs, there are significant barriers to full immunization uptake, including socio-economic factors, cultural beliefs, and access to healthcare. One of the key factors influencing immunization rates is maternal education, which plays an essential role in shaping mothers' understanding of immunization, the benefits of vaccines, and their willingness to seek healthcare services (Ahmed et al., 2024).
In Kaduna State, like many parts of Nigeria, there are disparities in immunization coverage, particularly between urban and rural areas, and between different socio-economic groups. Maternal education is often linked to a higher likelihood of seeking healthcare and understanding the importance of completing vaccination schedules. Educated mothers are more likely to be aware of the recommended immunization timeline, follow through with appointments, and advocate for their children's health (Usman et al., 2023). However, limited studies have examined how maternal education specifically correlates with childhood immunization uptake in Kaduna State.
This study aims to assess the relationship between maternal education levels and the uptake of childhood immunization in Kaduna State. By examining whether mothers with higher educational levels are more likely to vaccinate their children, the study will provide insights into how education can be leveraged to improve immunization rates and child health outcomes in the region.
Statement of the Problem
Although childhood immunization is crucial for reducing vaccine-preventable diseases, immunization coverage in Kaduna State remains suboptimal. One potential factor influencing immunization uptake is the level of maternal education. Despite evidence suggesting that educated mothers are more likely to ensure their children are vaccinated, there is limited data on the correlation between maternal education and immunization uptake in Kaduna State. Understanding this relationship is crucial to developing targeted interventions that can increase immunization rates, especially in areas with low maternal education.
Objectives of the Study
To examine the relationship between maternal education levels and childhood immunization uptake in Kaduna State.
To determine how different levels of maternal education influence the decision to vaccinate children.
To assess the barriers to immunization faced by mothers with different education levels in Kaduna State.
Research Questions
What is the relationship between maternal education levels and childhood immunization uptake in Kaduna State?
How does maternal education influence the decision-making process for childhood immunization?
What are the barriers to immunization faced by mothers with varying levels of education in Kaduna State?
Research Hypotheses
There is a significant positive correlation between maternal education levels and childhood immunization uptake in Kaduna State.
Mothers with higher levels of education are more likely to vaccinate their children compared to mothers with lower levels of education.
Barriers to immunization are more prominent among mothers with lower levels of education, contributing to lower immunization rates.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on mothers with children under the age of five in Kaduna State. Data will be collected through surveys and interviews to assess maternal education, immunization knowledge, and vaccination history. Limitations of the study include potential biases in self-reported data, variations in the quality of education across rural and urban areas, and differences in healthcare access that may impact immunization rates.
Definitions of Terms
Maternal Education: The level of formal education attained by the mother, including primary, secondary, or tertiary education.
Immunization Uptake: The extent to which children receive their recommended vaccines within the prescribed schedule.
Vaccine-Preventable Diseases: Diseases that can be prevented through vaccination, such as measles, polio, and diphtheria.
Barriers to Immunization: Factors that prevent or hinder mothers from vaccinating their children, such as lack of knowledge, accessibility, and cultural beliefs.
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