Investigation into Knowledge and Adherence To Vaccination and Screening Campaigns among Immigrants in the Marche Region, Central Italy

Promoting preventive health through vaccination and screening is a key public health goal. Immigrant populations often show lower uptake compared to the general population, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. This study examines knowledge and adherence to vaccination and screening programs among immigrants residing in the Marche Region, Central Italy. To evaluate the socio-economic and cultural characteristics of immigrants, as well as their participation in vaccination and screening programs. A structured questionnaire was developed ad hoc. Data collection was conducted via assisted interviews with a convenience sample of immigrants in the Province of Pesaro-Urbino. The study sample was mostly female 59 (84.3%), with participants primarily from Ukraine 30 (42.9%) and Moldova 15 (21.4%). The average age was 53 years, and they had lived in Italy for 17 years on average. The majority of immigrants had a high school diploma or higher degree 56 (52.9%). Most immigrants 66 (96%) reported receiving all mandatory childhood vaccinations in their country of origin, however, vaccination coverage declined after migration to Italy. Although 89% of participants were aware of disease prevention through screening, only 27% had participated in screening programs in their country of origin, whereas, 71% had a cancer screening in Italy, primarily through public health invitations. Screening and vaccine hesitancy were mainly linked to lack of information or absence of invitations (76%), time constraints (14%), low trust in screening efficacy (7%). This study highlights the low adherence to vaccination programs among the immigrant population in Italy, emphasizing the need for policymakers and health authorities to design local level interventions to improve communication strategies, enhance healthcare accessibility and ultimately contribute to better health outcomes, cost savings, and more equitable healthcare systems.