SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS OF CHILDHOOD IMMUNIZATION IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study examines the impact of socio-economic determinants of childhood immunization in Pakistan. The study uses the data of PSLM 2014-15. Data of the children in the age group of 1 to 2 years is included in the study because at least one year is needed to be fully immunized. To explore the relationship between socioeconomic factors and childhood immunization, binary logistic regression is used. The results indicate that boys are preferred for childhood immunization as compared to girls in Pakistan. In this study, father education is found to be a significant variable on childhood immunization in Pakistan. Landholding by household shows a positive and significant effect on childhood immunization. Results of the study also reveal that childhood immunization is positively associated with a mother’s working status. Working women are more responsible than their non-working counterparts. Children living in Punjab are more likely to be immunized since Punjab province is relatively developed than other provinces of Pakistan. The distance from health facilities has a negative influence on child immunization. Children born in Govt. hospitals or private hospitals have a greater probability to be immunized. This study also explores province wise childhood immunization as the results tend to be significant. Children living in Punjab tend to have a higher probability to be immunized.