title: Beliefs and behaviours: understanding chiropractors and immunization.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Concerns have been raised about the beliefs and behaviours of chiropractors related to immunization; however, none have systematically examined the relationships between beliefs and behaviours.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  We examine the immunization-related behaviours and beliefs of chiropractors in Alberta, Canada, and explore the relationship of beliefs to immunization-related behaviours with patients.
  
  
  METHODS
  Data were collected in 2002 from a postal survey of Alberta chiropractors. The questionnaire inquired about six behaviours of interest in the six months prior to survey (gave information about risks/benefits of vaccination; advised patients in favour/against have self/children immunized; counselled on freedom of choice; directed to sources of information on immunization). It included items addressing beliefs and norms related to immunization.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The response rate was 78.2% (503/643). Immunization arose with patients at least monthly for 36.5% of respondents, and at least weekly for 9.2%. One quarter advised patients in favour and 27% against having themselves/their children immunized. A parsimonious model of chiropractor pro/anti-vaccination behaviours included beliefs about the efficacy/safety of vaccination, chiropractic philosophy and individual rights.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Similar proportions of chiropractors advise patients in favour or against immunization. A small minority deals with immunization issues frequently. Behaviours can be understood in the context of beliefs.
authors.affiliation: Department of Community Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary, Alta., Canada T2N 4N1. mlrussel@ucalgary.ca
authors.forename: Margaret L
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Russell
authors.forename: H Stephen
authors.initials: HS
authors.lastname: Injeyan
authors.forename: Marja J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Verhoef
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Eliasziw
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002170:Canada; D002684:Chiropractic; D006801:Humans; D007114:Immunization; D005791:Patient Care; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014612:Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage
chemical_list: D014612:Vaccines