Vaccines
Cardioprotective Vaccination Effects: Association Between Vaccination Knowledge, Risk Perception, and Vaccination Intention in Older Patients with Pre-Existing Conditions
By Born S, Zimmermann C, Rose N and 3 others.
Abstract
Background/objectives
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain a major contributor to morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs worldwide. Acute respiratory infections such as influenza and pneumococcal disease can precipitate severe cardiovascular events, while vaccination against these pathogens offers both infection-related and cardioprotective benefits. The extent to which individuals are aware of these associations and how such knowledge shapes risk perception and vaccination intention remains unclear.
Methods
In a cross-sectional survey conducted between July and September 2025 in Germany, 101 geriatric patients and individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions were assessed regarding their knowledge of infection-related cardiovascular risks and cardioprotective vaccination benefits, risk perception, and vaccination intention.