Cervical Cancer Prevention Research Articles

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This narrative review addresses cervical cancer prevention and screening strategies, including vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV) and periodic Pap smears and DNA testing for HPV. Vaccination against HPV has been shown to be effective in preventing infections with viral types related to cervical cancer. Furthermore, regular Pap smears and HPV testing in women have been shown to be crucial in the early detection of precancer and cervical cancer. It is recommended to vaccinate young people before starting sexual activity and regular screening in women after a certain age or beginning of sexual activity. The combined use of these strategies is essential to reduce the incidence and mortality from cervical cancer. It is essential to promote awareness and access to these health interventions to achieve better prevention and control of cervical cancer.

Prevalence of cervical cancer and associated factors among women attending gynecological clinic outpatient department at tumbi regional referral hospital, Tanzania

Prevalence of cervical cancer and associated factors among women attending gynecological clinic outpatient department at tumbi regional referral hospital, Tanzania

Pap Cytology and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Genotypes in Western Romania: A Retrospective Analysis.

Background and objective Vigorous proactive measures are needed to combat cervical cancer, linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV genotyping aids in identifying high-risk strains, enabling targeted screening and risk assessment. This informs treatment decisions, reducing cervical cancer cases. In light of this, we conducted aretrospective analysis of Pap cytology and HPV genotypes to assess western Romania's new screening program. Understanding HPV prevalence, genotype correlations, and risk factors will help refine risk stratification models and enhance public health strategies. Methodology This retrospective studyanalyzed Pap smears from 195 patients with a mean age of 40 years [standard deviation (SD): 12 years], with a peak of incidence between 25 and 30 years. The patient cohort, with equal representationfrom urban and rural areas, comprised sexually active women of reproductive age presenting to the Gynaecology Ambulatory of the Municipal Emergency Clinical Hospital Timișoara over two years. Patients not sexually active and those in menopause were excluded. HPV genotyping was done on 67 patients. Data were analyzed using JASP, employing descriptive statistics, frequency tables, contingency tables, chi-squared test, odds ratio, and Fisher's exact test. Results Among 195 patients undergoing Pap smear tests, the most prevalent finding was negative (77.95%), indicating no abnormal cells detected. A smaller proportion of patients exhibited low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL, 11.28%) or atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US, 8.72%) findings. High-grade lesions (HSIL, ASC-H) were rare. For cytology grading, Category II (CII) was the most prevalent (75.90%), followed by Category III (CIII, 24.10%). HPV genotyping was performed on a subset of patients (n=67). Among them, Type 16 was the most frequent (28.36%), followed by Other high-risk types(20.89%), Type 16 (28.35%), and Type 18 (13.43%). HPV testing was not performed for 65.64% of the patients. Overall, the study suggests that a significant majority of the patients had normal Pap smears. However, a small proportion did have abnormal findings, including HPV infection. These findings highlight the importance of Pap smear screening for early detection of cervical abnormalities. Conclusions Our study from western Romania highlights the importance of HPV testing and Pap cytology in cervical cancer prevention. HPV testing is a potent tool for identifying high-risk women, and when combined with Pap cytology, it provides a more comprehensive screening strategy. Our research also revealed a diverse HPV genotype distribution, suggesting the need for broader-spectrum vaccines like the nonavalent vaccine. Despite our study's limitations, our findings underscore the need for including HPV testing in national screening guidelines. Future research should focus on larger studies and the cost-effectiveness of broader-spectrum vaccines. Implementing policies based onthese findings could lead to more effective cervical cancer prevention in western Romania.

Challenges regarding the implementation of cervical cancer screening guidelines in Limpopo province, South Africa.

The World Health Organization's (WHO) call to eliminate cervical cancer is essential in improving structures and processes at primary healthcare facilities by galvanising change in providing cervical cancer screening services. The main objective of this study was to explore challenges affecting the implementation of cervical cancer screening guidelines in selected districts in Limpopo Province. The study was carried out at primary health care services (PHCs) in Vhembe and Mopani districts, Limpopo province. Qualitative non-experimental research design of an exploratory, descriptive and contextual nature of a qualitative paradigm to understand cervical cancer screening programme challenges from healthcare professionals' perspectives. The study population comprised two males and 16 female professional registered nurses working in Limpopo province's PHC services. The sample size was 18 professional nurses. A face-to-face interview guided by unstructured questionnaires was undertaken to elicit information regarding the implementation of cervical cancer screening services. Captured data were analysed using Tesch's open-coding method. The study revealed that the cervical cancer guidelines were not effectively implemented as there were contradictions and gaps when applying the guidelines about the management of HIV and AIDS, age restrictions and gestation. Furthermore, structural factors contributed to the inadequacy rate and failure to reach the set targets. Primary health care is an essential health care and human right; therefore, the government should ensure that guidelines and policies are supported financially and that professional nurses are capacitated for the efficient implementation of services.Contribution:Addressing the inequalities in the implementation of social policies for the prevention of cervical cancer prevention and improving the nurses' knowledge and practice behaviour regarding cervical cancer prevention are imperative.

Factors associated with cervical cancer prevention coverage

Objective: To evaluate the factors associated with cervical cancer prevention coverage. Methods: an integrative literature review was conducted, articles retrieved from the secondary databases Virtual Health Library, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature, Scientific Electronic Library Online and Online System for Search and Analysis of Medical Literature were analyzed, based on Boolean operators. Results: the factors associated with this outcome were being married/widowed/separated/divorced, not being a smoker, having health insurance, having seen a doctor in the last year and having a domicile registered in the Basic Family Health Unit, factors such as not being scheduled by the professional, women with a family income of up to 1 minimum wage, who studied up to the 4th grade, residents in the Northeast region and in municipalities with up to 20,000 inhabitants, women who had never attended school, with four or more children, a history of four or more births, who did not use contraception and had inadequate knowledge about the test, feelings of shame, fear and fear of the diagnosis represented barriers to the performance of the test. Conclusion: the data of the study indicate that the factors that influence the coverage of cervical cancer prevention tests may be individual, structural and access, technical and cultural.

Expanding management strategies for cervical precancerous lesions in resource-limited settings: insights from a training center in a district hospital in Ghana

BackgroundCervical cancer continues to disproportionately burden women in low/middle-income countries like Ghana. We examined treatment patterns and histopathological outcomes among women screened using visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) and/or mobile colposcopy who subsequently underwent thermal ablation, large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ), or cold knife conization at the Cervical Cancer Prevention and Training Centre, Battor. We also assessed the prevalence of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2+ (CIN2+) or micro-invasive disease and their associated factors for women who underwent excisional treatments. The treatment choices for cervical precancerous lesions suitable for resource-limited settings have also been described from the perspective of a center that manages a heterogenous population.MethodsWe conducted an analysis of secondary data collected between June 2016 and June 2023 among women with positive findings on VIA or mobile colposcopy who subsequently underwent thermal ablation or large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ). The prevalence of histopathology outcomes, including no dysplasia, CIN1 − 3, and micro-invasive disease, were estimated with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Factors associated with histopathological findings were modeled using multinomial logistic regression.ResultsFor the study period, 14 (10.6%) of the total 132 participants underwent cervical lesion treatment at outreach locations, all via thermal ablation. The remaining 118 (89.4%) were treated at the Catholic Hospital, Battor using LLETZ (n = 66, 55.9%), thermal ablation (n = 51, 43.2%), and cold knife conization (n = 1, 0.9%). Among 65 women with histopathology reports, the most frequent histopathological finding was no dysplasia (47.7%; 95% CI, 35.1 − 60.5), followed by CIN2 and CIN3 (20.0%; 95% CI, 11.1 − 31.8 each), CIN1 (7.7%; 95% CI, 2.5 − 17.0) and micro-invasion (4.6%; 95% CI, 1.0 − 12.9). Those with micro-invasive disease were significantly older than those with CIN1, CIN2, and CIN3 (p = 0.036, 0.022, 0.009, respectively), but not significantly older than those who showed no dysplasia (p = 0.088). For each unit increase in age, the likelihood of CIN3 was relatively significantly reduced compared to no dysplasia (crude relative risk ratio [RRR] = 0.93; 95% CI, 0.86 − 0.99). This association was neither observed with the remaining histopathological groups nor for parity and persisted after controlling for parity (adjusted RRR = 0.92; 95% CI, 0.85 − 0.99; p = 0.025).ConclusionThis paper largely demonstrates treatment options available to women and practitioners in LMICs. The high combined prevalence of high-grade precancerous lesions and micro-invasive disease underscores the need to increase cervical cancer awareness that would enhance screening attendance and hasten efforts at moving from opportunistic to organized screening in Ghana. This will enhance early cervical lesion detection and treatment, while simultaneously re-evaluating and cutting down on unnecessary treatment.

Predictive models for personalized precision medical intervention in spontaneous regression stages of cervical precancerous lesions

BackgroundDuring the prolonged period from Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection to cervical cancer development, Low-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion (LSIL) stage provides a critical opportunity for cervical cancer prevention, giving the high potential for reversal in this stage. However, there is few research and a lack of clear guidelines on appropriate intervention strategies at this stage, underscoring the need for real-time prognostic predictions and personalized treatments to promote lesion reversal.MethodsWe have established a prospective cohort. Since 2018, we have been collecting clinical data and pathological images of HPV-infected patients, followed by tracking the progression of their cervical lesions. In constructing our predictive models, we applied logistic regression and six machine learning models, evaluating each model’s predictive performance using metrics such as the Area Under the Curve (AUC). We also employed the SHAP method for interpretative analysis of the prediction results. Additionally, the model identifies key factors influencing the progression of the lesions.ResultsModel comparisons highlighted the superior performance of Random Forests (RF) and Support Vector Machines (SVM), both in clinical parameter and pathological image-based predictions. Notably, the RF model, which integrates pathological images and clinical multi-parameters, achieved the highest AUC of 0.866. Another significant finding was the substantial impact of sleep quality on the spontaneous clearance of HPV and regression of LSIL.ConclusionsIn contrast to current cervical cancer prediction models, our model’s prognostic capabilities extend to the spontaneous regression stage of cervical cancer. This model aids clinicians in real-time monitoring of lesions and in developing personalized treatment or follow-up plans by assessing individual risk factors, thus fostering lesion spontaneous reversal and aiding in cervical cancer prevention and reduction.Graphical

Pap test recency and HPV vaccination among Brazilian immigrant women in the United States: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe United States (U.S.) has a growing population of Brazilian immigrant women. However, limited research has explored Pap tests and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among this population.MethodsParticipants completed an online survey between July—August 2020. Bivariate analyses examined associations between healthcare-related variables (e.g., insurance, having a primary care provider) and demographics (e.g., age, education, income, marital status, years living in the U.S., primary language spoken at home) with 1) Pap test recency (within the past 3 years) and 2) HPV vaccination (0 doses vs. 1 + doses). Variables significant at p < 0.10 in bivariate analyses were included in multivariable logistic regression models examining Pap test recency and HPV vaccination.ResultsThe study found that 83.7% of the sample had a Pap test in the past three years. Women who did not know their household income were less likely to be than women who reported a household income of < $25,000 (adjusted OR [aOR] = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.95). Women who had seen a healthcare provider in the past year were more likely to have had a Pap test within the last three years than those who had not seen a provider in the past year ([aOR] = 2.43, 95% CI: 1.32, 4.47). Regarding HPV vaccination, 30.3% of respondents reported receiving one or more doses of the HPV vaccine. The multivariable logic regression models determined that women aged 27 -45 (aOR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.18, 0.67) were less likely than women aged 18–26 to have been vaccinated against HPV). and that women with a PCP were more likely to be vaccinated than those without a PCP (aOR = 2.47. 95% CI:1.30, 4.59).ConclusionThis study found that Brazilian immigrant women in the youngest age groups (21 – 29) for Pap test, 18- 26 for HPV vaccination) had somewhat better rates of Pap screening and HPV vaccination than the general U.S. population. This study adds new information about cervical cancer prevention and control behaviors among Brazilian immigrant women.

Cross-sectional study of pharmacists’ knowledge and beliefs about human papillomavirus, its vaccines, and barriers related to vaccine administration

Abstract Background The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is not currently included in the national immunization program in Jordan. The rising prevalence of cervical cancer in Jordan highlights the necessity for a novel approach to boost HPV vaccination rates. Thus, the main objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, beliefs, and potential barriers concerning HPV and HPV vaccine administration in community pharmacies. Methods This cross-sectional study, conducted in Jordan between July and September 2023, involved community pharmacists. Using a convenience sampling approach, one author visited various community pharmacies to distribute and collect questionnaires. A total knowledge score, out of a possible 10 points, and a belief score out of 40 were calculated for each pharmacists. Additionally, the study examined factors that may influence participants’ knowledge and belief levels. Results A total of 302 community pharmacists took part in the survey, with approximately two-thirds of the participants being female (n = 230, 76.2%). The average knowledge score about HPV was 2.7 out of 10 (standard deviation [SD] = 1.8), and linear regression analysis indicated no significant relationship between pharmacists’ knowledge about HPV and the factors studied, such as age, gender, area of pharmacy, and the acquired degree. In terms of beliefs, findings revealed that 63.2% supported an expanded role for community pharmacists in HPV vaccination. Three main barriers were identified: lack of parental knowledge (n = 218, 72.2%), insufficient educational materials for parents (n = 206, 68.2%), and inadequate provider knowledge (n = 201, 66.6%). Conclusions In summary, this study provides valuable insights into the knowledge, beliefs, and challenges surrounding HPV and HPV vaccination among community pharmacists in Jordan. To enhance the involvement of community pharmacists in promoting HPV vaccination and aiding in the prevention of HPV-related illnesses, it is crucial to address the identified knowledge gaps and obstacles.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in Japan.

To review the status of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in Japan from inception to the present, focusing on past and current challenges. Published articles and website content related to HPV vaccination were reviewed. The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare suspended proactive recommendations for HPV vaccination in June 2013 following repeated media reports of girls experiencing adverse events, including chronic pain and walking disturbances, after receiving the HPV vaccine. Despite later recognition of these symptoms as a functional somatic syndrome, HPV vaccine coverage of target girls aged 12 to 16 years in the National Immunization Program (NIP) rapidly decreased to near zero. This suspension of the proactive HPV vaccination recommendation ceased in fiscal year (f-year) 2022, initiating a 3-year catch-up free HPV vaccination period from April 2022 to March 2025 for women born from f-years 1997 to 2005. These drastic changes were driven by established evidence of the effectiveness and safety of HPV vaccines reported from both Japan and other countries, and a nine-valent HPV vaccine has been included in the NIP since f-year 2023. However, the estimated HPV vaccination rate in the NIP remains low at ≤30%. To regain high coverage of HPV vaccination in Japan, it is essential that government, industry, and academic society work together to raise awareness and educate Japanese people about cervical cancer prevention and HPV-related diseases.

A Systematic Review of Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Challenges and Strategies to Enhance Uptake.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination has revolutionized cervical cancer prevention. Clinical trials confirm that the quadrivalent (HPV types 6, 11, 16, 18) and bivalent (HPV types 16, 18) vaccines effectively prevent HPV infections and cervical neoplasia. The latest HPV vaccine protects against nine virus types responsible for 90% of cervical cancer cases globally. Despite their undoubted effectiveness in reducing morbidity and mortality associated with HPV infections, challenges in vaccine coverage and uptake persist. The current study aimed to identify the primary challenges associated with HPV vaccination, propose effective strategies to improve vaccination uptake, and compile relevant evidence into a comprehensive overview to inform policy and practice. A systematic review protocol, following PRISMA-P and PRISMA guidelines, was established. Articles were sourced from the Web of Science using keywords from a comprehensive review of HPV vaccination challenges and strategies. Studies published between 1 January 2020, and 1 May 2024, including RCTs and observational, qualitative, and cross-sectional studies, were included, while reviews, protocols, and commentaries were excluded. Titles, abstracts, and full texts were screened per PRISMA guidelines. The review identified five key strategies to improve HPV vaccination uptake: parental and school engagement, use of technology and multimedia tools, healthcare providers' role, multicomponent interventions, and targeted interventions for immigrant groups. This review emphasized the need for a multifaceted approach to improving vaccination rates, offering a robust foundation for policy and stakeholder initiatives.

An Implementation Evaluation of the Smartphone-Enhanced Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (SEVIA) Program for Cervical Cancer Prevention in Urban and Rural Tanzania.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) for cervical cancer screening (CCS) in lower-resource settings; however, quality varies widely, and it is difficult to maintain a well-trained cadre of providers. The Smartphone-Enhanced Visual Inspection with Acetic acid (SEVIA) program was designed to offer secure sharing of cervical images and real-time supportive supervision to health care workers, in order to improve the quality and accuracy of visual assessment of the cervix for treatment. The purpose of this evaluation was to document early learnings from patients, providers, and higher-level program stakeholders, on barriers and enablers to program implementation. From 9 September to 8 December 2016, observational activities and open-ended interviews were conducted with image reviewers (n = 5), providers (n = 17), community mobilizers (n = 14), patients (n = 21), supervisors (n = 4) and implementation partners (n = 5) involved with SEVIA. Sixty-six interviews were conducted at 14 facilities, in all five of the program regions Results SEVIA was found to be a highly regarded tool for the enhancement of CCS services in Northern Tanzania. Acceptability, adoption, appropriateness, feasibility, and coverage of the intervention were highly recognized. It appeared to be an effective means of improving good clinical practice among providers and fit seamlessly into existing roles and processes. Barriers to implementation included network connectivity issues, and community misconceptions and the adoption of CCS more generally. SEVIA is a practical and feasible mobile health intervention and tool that is easily integrated into the National CCS program to enhance the quality of care.

The Role of Health Information Sources on Cervical Cancer Literacy, Knowledge, Attitudes and Screening Practices in Sub-Saharan African Women: A Systematic Review.

Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among Sub-Saharan African women. This systematic review aimed to identify information sources and their relation to cervical cancer knowledge, literacy, screening, and attitudes. Peer-reviewed literature was searched on 2 March 2022, and updated on 24 January 2023, in four databases-CINAHL Plus, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science. Eligible studies included those that were empirical, published after 2002, included rural women, and reported on information sources and preferences. The quality of the selected articles was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Data extraction was conducted on an Excel spreadsheet, and a narrative synthesis was used to summarize findings from 33 studies. Healthcare workers were the most cited information sources, followed by mass media, social networks, print media, churches, community leaders, the Internet, and teachers. Community leaders were preferred, while healthcare workers were the most credible sources among rural women. There was generally low cervical cancer knowledge, literacy, and screening uptake, yet high prevalence of negative attitudes toward cervical cancer and its screening; these outcomes were worse in rural areas. A content analysis revealed a positive association of health information sources with cervical cancer literacy, knowledge, screening, and positive screening attitudes. Disparities in cervical cancer prevention exist between rural and urban Sub-Saharan African women.

Cervical cancer prevention and care in HIV clinics across sub-Saharan Africa: results of a facility-based survey.

To eliminate cervical cancer (CC), access to and quality of prevention and care services must be monitored, particularly for women living with HIV (WLHIV). We assessed implementation practices in HIV clinics across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) to identify gaps in the care cascade and used aggregated patient data to populate cascades for WLHIV attending HIV clinics. Our facility-based survey was administered between November 2020 and July 2021 in 30 HIV clinics across SSA that participate in the International epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) consortium. We performed a qualitative site-level assessment of CC prevention and care services and analysed data from routine care of WLHIV in SSA. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination was offered in 33% of sites. Referral for CC diagnosis (42%) and treatment (70%) was common, but not free at about 50% of sites. Most sites had electronic health information systems (90%), but data to inform indicators to monitor global targets for CC elimination in WLHIV were not routinely collected in these sites. Data were collected routinely in only 36% of sites that offered HPV vaccination, 33% of sites that offered cervical screening and 20% of sites that offered pre-cancer and CC treatment. Though CC prevention and care services have long been available in some HIV clinics across SSA, patient and programme monitoring need to be improved. Countries should consider leveraging their existing health information systems and use monitoring tools provided by the World Health Organization to improve CC prevention programmes and access, and to track their progress towards the goal of eliminating CC.

A Feasibility Study of a Behavioral Intervention to Increase Uptake of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination in Envigado, Colombia

PURPOSE The estimated HPV vaccination coverage in Colombia is approximately 39%, falling short of the 90% goal set by the Global Strategy for Cervical Cancer Elimination proposed by the WHO for 2030. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a behavioral intervention named Super Protegidas, to increase HPV vaccination of girls aged 9 to 14 years. Following the recommendations of the ORBIT model for behavioral interventions development, the problem was conceptualized, an intervention was designed with stakeholders, and the results of the feasibility phase are presented here. METHODS The protocol, based on the COM-B model, focuses on dyads of girls and caregivers. For the girls, a playful pedagogical workshop was conducted in two schools, addressing primary prevention of cervical cancer through HPV vaccination. For parents, the protocol includes a letter, a series of multimedia messages with text, a video on cervical cancer prevention, and a reminder message the day before vaccination. After conducting this intervention, a feasibility study was carried out through semi-structured telephone interviews with participating caregivers. This aimed to assess acceptability, retention, comprehension, effort required to participate, and suggestions for improvement. RESULTS Fifteen dyads of girls and their caregivers participated, with an 80% sample retention completing both the intervention and the telephonic interview. Of these, 69.2% did not watch the videos, 83.3% read the letter with their daughter, 100% were pleased with the intervention, the clarity of the messages, and the delivery method. Regarding areas for improvement, 41.6% suggested avoiding videos due to the time required to watch them and recommended sending messages in the early hours of the night as this increases the likelihood of reading them. CONCLUSION The intervention was well-received by participants and deemed feasible by researchers. Adjustments are needed to enable participants to access information in a more timely manner.

An Overview of the Project ECHO—Cervical Cancer Prevention in Mozambique

PURPOSE Cervical cancer is the most common cancer among women in Mozambique, a Portuguese-speaking country in sub-Saharan Africa. There is a shortage of health care providers to diagnose and treat preinvasive cervical disease. Therefore, training and mentoring to perform colposcopy, cervical biopsy, ablation and loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) is imperative. The purpose of this study is to describe our program to date. METHODS Our team of physicians, nurses and other health professionals from the United States (US) and Brazil provides in-person training for clinicians in Mozambique supplemented with Project ECHO® (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes), a telementoring program to provide virtual support and reinforce and amplify knowledge and skills to build capacity. In-person trainings are held 2-4 times per year. ECHO videoconferences are held monthly with Mozambican clinicians presenting de-identified patient cases for discussion with specialists from the US and Brazil and their peers. Training, lectures and discussions are held in Portuguese. In 2023 we launched a survey to assess the impact of Project ECHO to the participants. The survey covered the applicability of the content discussed in their practice and the content learned during case presentations. Data from the survey were stored in REDcap. RESULTS Since February 2019, we have held nine in-person and 16 virtual trainings supplemented with 59 ECHO telementoring sessions, with an average of 53 participants per session. Forty-eight cases were presented and discussed. Respondents included 182 participants. Of the 139 who answered their profession, the majority were nurses (83, 59.8%), followed by doctors (33, 23.7%) and others (23, 16.5%). When asked about applicability of the content discussed in ECHO, the majority agreed/strongly agreed that the content was applicable to their practice (78/79, 98.7%) and that they learned something new during the case presentations (114/116, 98.3%). Lastly, 93.2% (68/73) of responders said that they would make changes to their practice as a result of the Project ECHO participation. CONCLUSION Well-trained clinicians for the management of women with abnormal screening tests is critical for improving cervical cancer prevention. The ECHO project model facilitates and extends mentoring and training of healthcare professionals and keeps providers engaged in learning.

The Impact of an Educational Program on the Awareness and Knowledge of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccine Among Secondary School Girls in Saudi Arabia.

The objectives were to assess the effectiveness ofthe educational program in enhancing students' understanding of thehuman papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, correcting misconceptions, and increasing overall awareness. Additionally, the study aimed to identify factors influencing knowledge improvement and willingness to be vaccinated against HPV, including prior knowledge, information sources, session attendance, and school type. In this study, 148 participants were enrolled from secondary schools in Saudi Arabia, and data were collected through pre- and post-educational session assessments, logistic regression analyses, and qualitative investigations. Educational sessions focused on key aspects of the HPV vaccine, including its preventive benefits, administration details, and side effects, tailored to address common misconceptions and enhance understanding among students. The study revealed significant improvements in students' knowledge post-educational sessions, particularly in key areas such as cervical cancer prevention, gender recommendations, vaccine administration, and side effect awareness. Prior knowledge, information sources, session attendance, and school type significantly influenced knowledge enhancement and willingness to be vaccinated against HPV. The qualitative analysis provided additional insights into challenges, perceptions, and misconceptions surrounding HPV vaccination, underlining the significance of targeted education and cultural sensitivity in promoting vaccination uptake. The findings underscored the effectiveness of the educational intervention in enhancing HPV vaccine awareness, dispelling myths, and fostering informed decision-making among Saudi Arabian adolescent populations. The study emphasizes the critical role of tailored educational programs in correcting misconceptions, promoting accurate knowledge, and ultimately increasing vaccination acceptance for improved public health outcomes and disease prevention efforts. Ongoing efforts are essential to sustain and expand educational initiatives to enhance HPV vaccine understanding and adolescent uptake.

Human papilloma virus (HPV)-related information acquisition and seeking behavior among infected women: A single center cross-sectional survey in Shanghai, China.

Lacking of adequate knowledge is an obstacle to effective prevention of cervical cancer, yet factors that affect the information acquisition and seeking behavior as well as the information communication process are not well studied. We assessed information acquisition and seeking behavior, as well as perceived barriers of doctor-patient communication regarding human papilloma virus (HPV)-related information of infected women. Among 437 participants, 405 (93%) expressed demands for HPV-related information, while only a small proportion (100/437, 22.9%) actively sought information and felt obstacles comprehending. Web-based channels were most frequently utilized and medical personnel were the most trusted information source. Patients' satisfaction was significantly correlated with doctor's patience (r = 0.581, p < 0.001) and emotional caring (r = 0.555, p < 0.001). Compared to patients not actively seeking information, those actively seeking information were more likely to be single (p = 0.005), had higher education (p = 0.009) and monthly individual-level income (p = 0.023), and was more likely to undergo regular cervical cancer screening (p = 0.003), and were already or willing to be vaccinated (p = 0.008). The actively seeking information group also achieved higher scores in HPV knowledge test (p = 0.007). Public health interventions targeting HPV-infected women using specifically designed educational materials may influence information seeking behavior, increase HPV literacy and knowledge, which could potentially increase HPV vaccine uptake and cervical cancer screening rate.

EVALUATION OF REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH STATUS OF HPV-VACCINATED GIRLS IN THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN

Relevance: The safety of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination for vaccinated girls is emphasized by the need to educate the public about facts that counter myths and concerns associated with the vaccine. Recent studies have found no link between HPV vaccination and adverse effects, such as adverse effects on girls’ reproductive health and decreased fertility. This confirms the safety of vaccination in preventing cervical cancer and also highlights the importance of continuing vaccination programs and information campaigns to support public health. Purpose of the study: to assess of reproductive health in vaccinated girls against HPV in 2013-2015. Methods: A survey of girls vaccinated against HPV in 2013-2015 was conducted through questionnaires in Almaty, Pavlodar, and Astana. Results: According to the study results, the percentage of girls with menstrual dysfunction was lower among vaccinated (5.6%) than among unvaccinated (11.2%). There is also a higher willingness of vaccinated girls to vaccinate their children against HPV (43.5% versus 29.9%), indicating their high awareness and readiness for prevention. Thus, HPV vaccination did not have a negative impact on the reproductive health of girls. Conclusion: According to our study, vaccination against HPV does not affect the reproductive potential of girls vaccinated against HPV. It is associated with a lower risk of developing HPV-related diseases and does not have negative consequences on reproductive health. HPV vaccination is an important cervical cancer prevention measure with proven safety and effectiveness.

Knowledge and attitude towards cervical cancer prevention strategies among female undergraduate students in a private university in Nigeria

Objective: Cervical cancer has been a significant public health issue, mostly in developing countries. It is the fourth most common cancer among women globally, with its contribution to the cancer burden, significant across all cultures and economies. Most cervical cancer cases are diagnosed late leading to poor outcomes, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa and other low- and middle-income countries. So, this study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude towards cervical cancer prevention strategies. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study among undergraduate female students at Babcock University. A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection from 255 respondents selected using a multistage sampling method. Data was entered and analysed using IBM SPSS version 23. Chi-square and logistic regression were done. Results: More than half (56.1%) of respondents had good knowledge, while 62.7% had a favourable attitude towards cervical cancer prevention strategies. However, only 26.7% and 36.1% of the respondents had received the HPV vaccine and screened for cervical cancer, respectively. The reasons for the poor uptake of the screening services were no time to go for screening and a lack of awareness of screening centres. Factors associated with acceptance of cervical cancer screening were knowledge (OR= 15; 95% CI 0.149 -0.524; p=0.0001), and having received the HPV vaccine in the past (OR=29; 95% CI 3.151-1.654; p=0.0001). Conclusion: There is an urgent need to improve the knowledge and attitude of female undergraduate students towards cervical cancer prevention strategies to achieve the elimination of the disease.