Immunization uptake of Glasgow Asian children: paradoxical benefit of communication barriers?

Abstract

Asian children are a priority group for immunization. In view of such barriers to care as language and cultural differences, their immunization rate would be predicted to be low. We studied the immunization uptake among Asian children and matched controls using a retrospective cohort study. Asian children were identified by a names analysis and categorized as Muslim, Hindu or Sikh. They were matched for sex and post-code with children having European names. Immunization uptake and health visitor contact were measured. Sikhs had the highest immunization rates (90 per cent or more) for DPT, measles and polio. Muslims and Hindus had higher uptake of pertussis vaccination but were on a par with their controls for other immunization. Immunization of Asian children was minimally delayed compared with controls. Health visitor contact was no greater for Asians. The higher uptake of immunization amongst Asians indicates that barriers to care for Asians can be overcome. Indeed, these barriers may have shielded Asian patients from the effects of adverse media publicity and ensuing professional.