Attitude toward Synthetic Biology Vaccine among Thai people Aged 15-60 years
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Abstract
Synthetic biology is revolutionizing vaccine development, particularly through innovations like mRNA-based vaccines that offer rapid production and strong safety profiles. Despite these advancements, public acceptance of synthetic biology-based vaccines remains uncertain in low- and middle-income countries such as Thailand, where awareness is limited and acceptance is influenced by skepticism and socio-cultural factors. This study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge about synthetic biology vaccines among Thai individuals aged 15–60 years, explore their attitudes toward vaccine acceptance, and identify key predictors influencing their willingness to accept such vaccines. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 894 participants using purposive and snowball sampling methods. The questionnaire collected demographic data as well as responses related to knowledge and attitudes toward synthetic biology vaccines. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression to explore associations and predictive factors.
The research results found that the most participants demonstrated low knowledge (66.33%), yet a majority (54.14%) held moderately positive attitudes toward synthetic biology vaccine acceptance. Knowledge was a significant predictor of acceptance (p < 0.001), while demographic variables such as gender, age, and income were not statistically significant. Discussion highlighted the role of external factors like trust and media exposure in shaping attitudes, despite limited scientific literacy.
From the results of this study, it can be concluded that public acceptance of synthetic biology vaccines in Thailand is moderately favorable, even with low awareness. This suggests that trust, effective communication, and cultural relevance may outweigh scientific knowledge in driving vaccine attitudes. Tailored outreach strategies are essential for promoting acceptance of emerging biotechnologies.
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บทความที่พิมพ์ในวารสารสถาบันป้องกันควบคุมโรคเขตเมือง ถือว่าเป็นผลงานวิชาการ งานวิจัยและวิเคราะห์ ตลอดจนเป็นความเห็นส่วนตัวของผู้เขียนเอง ไม่ใช่ความเห็นของสถาบันป้องกันควบคุมโรคเขตเมือง หรือคณะบรรณาธิการแต่ประการใด ผู้เขียนจำต้องรับผิดชอบต่อบทความของตน
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