Awareness of Sexually Transmitted Infection and Cervical Cancer in Nigerian Female Adolescents [12F

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Cervical cancer is a sequel of Human Papillomavirus infection. Female adolescents in Nigeria are at high risk for future occurrence of this malignancy because of multiple concurrent sexual partners, and unprotected sex. High incomes and sophisticated lifestyles induced by the Niger Delta crude oil operations, youth unrest, peer group pressure, and substance abuse promote these sexually transmitted infections. Data should be collected from these adolescents to facilitate sexual behavioral change. METHODS: To determine the level of awareness of the relationship between sexually transmitted infection and cervical cancer. Information was collected from Two hundred and forty female adolescent secondary school students and undergraduates attending a holiday camp in Port Harcourt, South Nigeria. RESULTS: The mean age of the subjects was 15 years. Forty- eight (20%) subjects were under 13 years. 51% were aged 14 years to 16 years, and 29% were aged 17 years to 19 years. Forty-five per cent of the subjects were aware of cervical cancer but only 4% knew there was a relationship between unprotected sex and cervical cancer. The commonest sources of information were the media (50%), and hospitals (30%). None of the subjects was aware of the Human Papillomavirus vaccine. CONCLUSION: Adolescents are at increased risk for sexually transmitted infections, but have low levels of knowledge about their sequel. Promotion of sexual behavior attitudinal change facilitated by collection of data on sexuality will assist in reducing the incidence of cervical cancer in Nigeria.