Background
The extent to which a fear of needles influences health decisions
remains largely unexplored. This study investigated the prevalence
of fear of needles in a southeast Queensland community, described
associated symptoms, and highlighted health care avoidance
tendencies of affected individuals.
Discussion
Fear of needles is common and is associated with health care
avoidance. Health professionals could better identify and manage
patients who have a fear of needles by recognising associated
vasovagal symptoms and past traumatic experiences.
Results
Twenty-two percent of participants reported a fear of needles.
Affected participants were more likely than participants with no fear
to report vasovagal symptoms, have had a previous traumatic needle
experience (46.2 vs. 16.4%, p<0.001) and avoid medical treatment
involving needles (20.5 vs. 2.3%, p<0.001).
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