Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Diphtheria in Patients Presenting to Lady Reading Hospital MTI Peshawar KPK

Abstract

Background: Diphtheria as an otherwise immunolabel but life-threatening infection remains a significant health concern in developing countries and especially in population areas with poor immunization coverage. Over the recent past years, there have been an observable rise in cases of diphtheria in Pakistan particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa or (KPK). The Lady Reading Hospital (LRH) in Peshawar has become one of the key players in the administration of these cases, and therefore, there is the lack of localized research of the burden and determinants of the disease.

Objectives: To assess the prevalence and Risk factors of diphtheria among patients at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, to analyze the impact of vaccination on disease severity and outcomes. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at LRH six months between January and June 2025. Non-probability convenience sampling was done in 139 confirmed cases of diphtheria. The cosponsored questionnaire, which was based on a structured form focused on demographics, the medical history, vaccination background, and exposure-related factors, was used to collect data. The SPSS version 25 was used to enter all data and analyze it. A descriptive statistic was utilized to summarize the risk factors and the characteristics of patients. Results: The results showed that children aged less than ten years and with incomplete or no immunization history formed most of the cases of affected persons. Sore throats, fever and typical formation of pseudo membrane were also present. Various risk factors have been characterized such as low rates of coverage of vaccines, poor sanitation, household congestion, and density of lack owing to healthcare services. Over 50 percent of the cases did not have record of receiving a complete course of the diphtheria vaccine. Conclusion: Serious concerns are highlighted in the paper about an alarming comeback of diphtheria outbreak in Peshawar where it is mostly attributed to a lack of immunization and general knowledge regarding the health involved. Specific action is required to ensure better routine immunization program, increase public health education and overcome the socioeconomic barriers to accessing healthcare.