Knowledge and Awareness of Human Papillomavirus Vaccination for Oral Cancer Prevention among Dental Practitioners, Students, and Patients at UiTM Faculty of Dentistry, Malaysia

Abstract

Introduction: HPV (Human papillomavirus) infection is associated with an increased risk of various types of cancer, including cervical and oropharyngeal cancers. HPV vaccines are effective in preventing HPV infection and its associated diseases. This project aims to evaluate the knowledge between UITM’s dental practitioners, students, and patients regarding HPV vaccination for oral cancer prevention. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire-oriented approach. Respondents were enrolled through convenience sampling. The questionnaire consisted of different sections covering topics related to HPV, its associated cancers, HPV vaccination, and oral cancer. Results: The study included a total of 199 respondents, comprising 14 dental practitioners (DP), 86 dental students (DS), and 99 patients. Majority of DP (85.7%) and DS (89.5%) were aware of HPV, compared to only 26.3% of patients. Moreover, only 14.3% (DP), 26.7% (DS), and 14.1% (patients) knew that smoking can increase the risk of HPV infection. Additionally, only 23.2% of patients were aware that men can also be infected by HPV. Majority of respondents (n=183) recognized that HPV is one of the viruses that can cause oral cancer. However, 49.5% of patients were not aware that oral cancer can be prevented with HPV vaccination. Conclusions: The study reveals poor knowledge of HPV and oral cancer among patients. There is a need to implement regular awareness campaigns regarding HPV vaccines and oral cancer prevention, within the UiTM Dental faculty.