Vaccination practices and knowledge among adults with hemoglobinopathies in Greece: a nationwide survey.

Background: Hemoglobinopathies, such as sickle cell disease and thalassemia, are genetic disorders that affect hemoglobin structure or production, leading to various health complications, including an increased risk of infections. Vaccinations play a crucial role in managing these conditions by providing essential protection against preventable diseases. Ensuring timely and appropriate immunizations is vital for reducing infection-related morbidity and improving the overall health and quality of life for affected individuals. Objectives: Our objective was to assess vaccination coverage, as well as knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward vaccination in Greek patients with hemoglobinopathies. Design and methods: A nationwide survey of hemoglobinopathy patients in Greece using a 37-item questionnaire was conducted anonymously via Google Forms. It covered demographics, previous vaccinations, vaccine-preventable infections, beliefs about vaccines, and antibiotic prophylaxis post-splenectomy. The survey was distributed through Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Units and organizations. Results: Participants were predominantly university-educated married women aged 30-50 years with transfusion-depended thalassemia ( Conclusion: Addressing educational and access gaps could help protect this vulnerable population. Our findings highlight the need for coordinated efforts to optimize adult immunization for those with hemoglobinopathies.