Human Papillomavirus Knowledge Research Articles

Exploring Indonesian Primary Schoolgirls' Experiences of School-based HPV Vaccination, Knowledge of HPV Risks and Prevention, and Preferences for Cervical Cancer Education.

In 2016, Indonesia introduced its Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination demonstration program for girls in grades 5 and 6 of primary school, to reduce cervical cancer (CC) burden in selected provinces and test the viability of nationwide vaccination. This study explored schoolgirls' experience of school-based HPV vaccination, their knowledge of HPV and HPV vaccination, and their preferences for cervical cancer (CC) education. An online survey was conducted with schoolgirls who experienced HPV vaccination between 2019 and 2021 through the demonstration program. Using purposive sampling, respondents were recruited through partnerships with primary public health centres and primary schools in Jakarta and Yogyakarta. Data analysis was conducted using Chi-square test, Independent-samples t-test, and one-way ANOVA. One hundred and forty primary schoolgirls with a mean age of 12.2 years (SD = 0.70) completed the survey. Schools and mothers were identified as key actors in socialising children about important health information and as girls' preferred sources of information. The average summed score for girls' knowledge of HPV, the HPV vaccine, and CC after being vaccinated was 5.07 out of 10 (SD 0.23). Significant differences in the mean knowledge scores among participants with different preferences regarding CC education in school were observed. While schoolgirls' experiences of HPV vaccination were largely positive, their knowledge of critical health information regarding HPV vaccination and CC prevention needs improving. Thus, it is necessary to provide parents, and school-based educators with culturally appropriate strategies and comprehensive evidence-based information about HPV vaccination and CC prevention more effectively to children.

Perceptions, attitude, and knowledge of Saudi parents towards the human papilloma virus vaccine

ObjectivesHPV infection is a widely acknowledged cause of infection-related cancers globally. However, HPV vaccine is a reliable and risk-free method to avert HPV infection and is advised for children aged from 9 to 14, irrespective of their gender. Therefore, when considering the vaccination for human papilloma virus (HPV), viewpoints held by parents hugely impact their decision to vaccinate their daughters. This study aims to evaluate Saudi parents' comprehension and perception of HPV (human papilloma virus) and the HPV vaccine and its acceptability. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate parents of adolescent daughters. An online questionnaire was conducted using Google form to gather information about socio-demographic data, awareness, and knowledge of HPV, and the willingness to accept the HPV vaccine. ResultsOut of 424 participants, three-quarters of the participants were mothers 319 (75.2%) and 105 (24.8%) were fathers. Over half of the respondents (53.8%) were acknowledged that HPV is a cause of cervical cancer where the relationship was found to be significant in relation to gender. Almost half of the participants (47.0%) were acknowledged that HPV vaccine is used to prevent cervical cancer which was statistically significant in relation to gender (P=.034) but (47.9%) did not know. Encouragingly, levels of vaccine acceptance were high (54.7%) although (41.0%) had a negative attitude towards the effectiveness of HPV vaccine with strong belief that the vaccine can cause serious side effects (67.0%). Parents with family history of cervical cancer and were aware that the vaccine can prevent cervical cancer were positively associated.

Knowledge and Awareness of Human Papillomavirus Infection and Vaccination in Thai Male Youth, Including Men Who Have Sex With Men

OBJECTIVE There is currently a lack of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination policy and education for male youth in Thailand. This study aimed to evaluate Thai male youth’s knowledge and awareness of HPV infection and vaccination, determine their HPV vaccination rate, and factors related to the vaccination rate and the level of awareness of HPV. METHODS A questionnaire survey on HPV vaccination was distributed to educational institutions across different regions of Thailand. Inclusion criteria included Thai male youth aged between 15 and 24 years, regardless of sexual orientation. Exclusion criteria were inability to access the internet, individuals whose responses were unintelligible, and those who did not complete the questionnaire. The trends of the association between participant characteristics and their HPV knowledge/awareness scores was analyzed using linear regression. RESULTS A total of 594 individuals responded to the questionnaire. The median score for knowledge was 11 out of 18 and the awareness level was 80%. Higher education level, higher family income, bisexuality, and prior receipt of HPV information were statistically significantly linked to higher HPV knowledge scores. However, only previous receipt of HPV information was associated with an increased awareness level. CONCLUSIONS Although the level of HPV knowledge and awareness among Thai males was acceptable, less than 50% of participants expressed an intention to get vaccinated. This indicates there is a need to improve the promotion of the HPV vaccine in order to achieve herd immunity.

HPV education and vaccination uptake in college students: A DNP project.

The purpose of this DNP project was to establish baseline human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rates, improve baseline knowledge of HPV and HPV vaccines, reduce barriers to HPV vaccination, and increase intention of HPV vaccine uptake among college students. A precaution adoption process model-based survey, in-person education session, and posteducation survey were administered to college students in a Midwestern university to measure perceptions of HPV and HPV vaccination as well as to identify barriers to HPV vaccination. From the preeducation survey to the posteducation survey, correct answers to questions increased, and barriers and misconceptions about HPV and the HPV vaccine decreased, indicating successful education. HPV vaccination intent, defined as indication of "likely" or "very likely" to receive the vaccine on the surveys, rose from 28.0% to 90.7% among participating college students. This study showed that implementing engaging, in-person HPV prevention education is an effective method for decreasing barriers related to vaccination and increasing vaccination intention.

Human papillomavirus vaccination and contributing factors of vaccination intention among adolescents and young adults in China from a socio-ecological perspective: A cross-sectional study.

Adolescents and young adults are the main target population for human papillomavirus (HPV). The study aimed to investigate school students' HPV vaccination intentions and explore the contributing factors from a socio-ecological perspective. A questionnaire survey was conducted in three secondary schools and three colleges in China. A total of 1756 students aged 14-22 years participated in this study. Among the 1756 participants, 182 students have received the HPV vaccine. For the remaining 1574 students, we analyzed their HPV vaccination intentions and the influencing factors. Survey items for sociodemographics, knowledge and awareness of HPV, sexual intercourse and sexual knowledge, subjective socioeconomic status, self-efficacy, eHealth literacy, perceived social support from family, and the availability of HPV vaccine information were measured. Only 182 (10.4%) had received the HPV vaccine among the 1756 participants. Among the remaining 1574 students, the majority of the students (1403, 89.1%) were willing to receive the HPV vaccine. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that students who were female, had lower self-efficacy, scored higher on sexual knowledge, believed vaccination preventing related diseases, worried about side effects after vaccination, thought oneself at risk of contracting HPV, had higher family support, knew the availability of the HPV vaccine in Mainland China from healthcare institutions, and with family residence in rural areas were more willing to receive the HPV vaccine. Students had high HPV vaccination intentions while had low vaccination rate. Intrapersonal, interpersonal and institutional or community factors predicted HPV vaccination intention. Public health nurses in communities and schools could target the modifiable factors to promote students' HPV vaccine uptake.

Knowledge and perception of HPV vaccination among Lebanese mothers of children between nine and 17 years old

BackgroundThe human papillomavirus (HPV), a prevalent sexually transmitted infection, is linked to a wide range of diseases, with cervical cancer being the most common and serious one. HPV vaccination is crucial for preventing cervical cancer and other HPV-related problems. The low acceptability of HPV vaccination among teenagers globally is largely due to a lack of understanding and information about HPV among parents. Our study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge, attitude, intention, and HPV vaccination among parents in Lebanon as well as the variables influencing Lebanese mothers' intentions to vaccinate their children.MethodsA cross-sectional survey-based study involving 392 participants was conducted between May and June 2022. The study assessed parents' intention to vaccinate their children against HPV, their knowledge about HPV, and the HPV vaccine. The data was collected through an anonymous electronic questionnaire. A bivariate analysis was conducted using Student t-test and ANOVA to examine the relationship between the dependent variable “Intention to vaccination” and the secondary variables. The level of statistical significance was set at 0.05 for all data.ResultsOur findings showed that only 63% of the 392 participants claimed they would give their child the HPV vaccination. A positive significant association was demonstrated between "Intention to vaccinate against HPV" and mother's nationality, father's educational level, family income per month, information received about the HPV vaccine, parents' HPV vaccination, insurance coverage of the HPV vaccine, children's vaccinations with all required vaccines, knowledge of HPV, and knowledge of the HPV vaccine. Furthermore, when parents know about HPV, their desire to vaccinate their child increases by a factor of 1.832 times, and by 1.207 times when their knowledge level increases by one point.ConclusionThe majority of parents lacked a general understanding of most HPV-related statements, which highlights the requirement for educational interventions to raise parental awareness, understanding, and attitudes toward HPV and, as a result, increase parental acceptance of vaccinating their children. To increase the vaccination rate among adolescents, government authorities should ensure that the HPV vaccine is available in all hospitals and clinics and should be provided free of charge.

School Teachers' Perceptions of Adolescent Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination: A Systematic Review.

School nurses are uniquely positioned to educate students about immunizations, including human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, but schools are often without a nurse for different reasons. In lieu of nurses, teachers who closely interact with students and are traditionally well-trusted by parents may be able to communicate about HPV vaccination, alleviating parental vaccine hesitancy. This systematic review explores school teachers' perspectives on adolescent HPV vaccination and factors influencing their willingness to make vaccine recommendations. We searched three databases with appropriate medical subject headings and keywords to identify relevant studies. We reviewed fifteen studies and provided an extensive summary and a comparison of the results across the studies. Teachers had low to moderate levels of HPV knowledge with low self-efficacy to counsel parents about the HPV vaccine and expressed concerns about the vaccine condoning adolescent sexual activity, vaccine side effects, and parental disapproval. Nonetheless, some teachers showed interest in learning about vaccine effectiveness in preventing HPV-associated cancers and wanted guidance on vaccine communication with parents, viewing schools as adequate venues to promote and deliver HPV vaccines. Schools should consider educating teachers on HPV and HPV vaccination, with a focus on effective vaccine communication practices to increase adolescent HPV vaccine uptake.

Knowledge and Attitudes of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination among Secondary School Students in Selangor, Malaysia

Cervical cancer is a significant cause of female mortality in Malaysia, primarily linked to Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection. To address this, the Malaysian government launched a HPV vaccination program targeting secondary school students. This study aimed to investigate the level of knowledge and attitude toward HPV vaccination and its association with demographics as a determinant among Malaysian secondary school students. A survey study using random sampling was conducted for 182 secondary school students in Selangor between the aged 13-17 years old. A validated questionnaire was used to collect data on demographics, knowledge, and attitudes toward HPV vaccination. The students demonstrated moderate knowledge (M=3.75, SD=.85) and generally positive attitudes (M=3.48, SD=3.57) towards HPV vaccination. Gender (χ2=6.39, p=.011), ethnicity (χ2=6.57, p=.037), religion (χ2=15.51, p=.004), and age (χ2=12.61, p=.013) were statistically significant factors affecting knowledge. Gender (χ2=8.44, p=.004) and family income (χ2=11.63, p=.040) significantly influenced attitudes. The Malaysian national HPV immunisation program has been effective, but improvements are needed. These include adopting a gender-neutral approach, educating parents to foster positive attitudes, and promoting acceptance of HPV vaccination. Strategies like introducing sexual education and collaboration with the Ministry of Health School Health Unit (UKS) are vital for enhancing public awareness and understanding of HPV vaccination.

Abstract 810: Assessing human papillomavirus (HPV) awareness and intentions to participate in HPV vaccination and clinical trials (CT) among Latinos/as in Los Angeles (LA) County: A multicomponent intervention

Abstract Background: The incidence of HPV-related cancers continues to disproportionately affect women and men of Latino origin. In LA, a total of 20,868 individuals have been diagnosed with HPV-related cancers from 2009 to 2019. HPV infection knowledge and interpersonal barriers contribute to HPV vaccine delay and refusal. Similarly, Latinos/as continue to also have low participation in clinical trials research. To address the low knowledge, attitudes, and intentions towards HPV vaccination and participation in clinical trials (CT), we have adopted the NCI National Outreach Network framework and have used community health educators to deliver bilingual-culturally appropriate workshops on HPV and CT. Methods: Individuals, 18 and over and parents with eligible age children (in respect to the HPV initiative) were recruited through community outreach and local community partnerships to participate in the bilingual (English and Spanish) health education workshops. A baseline assessment was administered before each educational workshop and a follow-up assessment was administered after to evaluate change in HPV and CT knowledge, intentions to vaccinate, and likelihood to participate in CT. Descriptive statistics were calculated to assess distribution of demographic variables of interest and a paired T-test was used to explore matched pre-post differences in knowledge scores and intentions. Results: 290 (HPV) 272 (CT) individuals participated in the workshops. The mean age of participants was 41.13yrs with a (SD=11.63). More than half of participants were women 453 (81.7%), men 94 (16.9%) and other 7 (1.26%). Comparing HPV knowledge scores of matched pre-and post-surveys, showed that for baseline (n=182) (M=72.9%, SD=13.3) was statistically different from post-scores (n=182) (M=81%, SD=9.85) where p<0.05. Intentions were measured using a Likert scale, baseline (M=4.1), agree to get HPV vaccine, post (M=4.5) strongly agree to get HPV vaccine. In respect to CT baseline knowledge (n=174) (M=75.3%, SD=0.15), following a Likert scale response of (M=3.4), unsure to join a clinic trial. In assessing post-CT scores (N=174) (M=78%, SD:0.14), mean scores were significant where p<0.05 and an increase to (M=3.7) agree to join a clinical trial. After workshops attendance, not only was knowledge increased, but intentions to vaccinate against HPV and to participate in a clinical trial was strengthen. Conclusions: Strengthening community-based education and providing the necessary tools, can help reframe misconceptions about HPV and HPV vaccination and promote willingness to vaccinate and participate in clinical trials. Citation Format: Alejandra Ramos, Carolina Aristizabal, Lourdes A. Baezconde-Garbanati. Assessing human papillomavirus (HPV) awareness and intentions to participate in HPV vaccination and clinical trials (CT) among Latinos/as in Los Angeles (LA) County: A multicomponent intervention [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 810.

Assessment of HPV Knowledge and Awareness among Students and Staff at IBB University, Niger State, Nigeria: Implications for Health Education and Prevention.

In Nigeria, statistics reveal that there is a high rate of cervical cancer among women and a significant lack of awareness surrounding Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which poses a substantial risk of HPV infection. This cross-sectional survey, conducted at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) University, focuses on adapting and exploring the factors that influence a 20-item scale to measure HPV knowledge, evaluating knowledge-associated patterns and HPV-associated risk factors. We examined HPV vaccination rates, infection awareness, vaccine awareness, and the impact of ethnicity on HPV knowledge. Various validated forms were adapted to measure HPV awareness and knowledge. Non-parametric tests addressed non-normality. Data were presented using median and IQR and categorical data were frequency-based. Bivariate tests (Mann-Witney, Kruskal Wallis) explored knowledge-associated factors, while quantile regression (75th percentile) examined HPV knowledge factors. Variables were considered statistically significant at p < 0.05. The adapted 20-item knowledge scale revealed strong reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.913), ensuring internal consistency. The median knowledge score was 0, with an interquartile range (IQR) of 0-5. Our findings revealed a significant lack of awareness and knowledge about HPV; only 34.8% of the population were aware of HPV infection and 25.0% were familiar with HPV vaccination. Furthermore, ethnicity was found to be significantly associated with knowledge of HPV. This study emphasizes the necessity for targeted interventions to enhance HPV awareness, especially within specific ethnic groups. Despite a robust knowledge scale, educational initiatives such as seminars/conferences about HPV and cervical cancer remain crucial in addressing this gap, ultimately reducing HPV infection and cervical cancer risks in Nigeria.

Knowledge of cervical cancer, human papillomavirus (HPV), and acceptance of the HPV vaccine among parents of daughters in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

BackgroundCervical cancer is the eighth most prevalent cancer among women nationwide, with 358 new cases reported annually. One of the strategies to prevent it is getting vaccinated against the human papillomavirus (HPV), the leading cause of this cancer. MethodsA survey-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to evaluate the acceptance of the HPV vaccine among parents of daughters and their knowledge of three domains: cervical cancer, HPV, and the HPV vaccine. Results390 parents participated in the study, with 88.2% female, 39.74% of the participants aged between 36-62 years old, and 62.56% holding a bachelor's degree or above. Parents were more aware of cervical cancer (78.97%), followed by HPV (50%) and the HPV vaccine (41.28%). Awareness levels about cervical cancer were significantly different among males and females, while awareness of HPV and the HPV vaccine was significantly associated with parents' education levels. For instance, parents with a bachelor's degree or higher (54.9%) demonstrated greater awareness of HPV compared to parents with a high school diploma (41.9%) or a middle school diploma or less (41.5%). The overall participants' knowledge scores in all three domains were poor, with an average below 50%. 60% of parents believed their daughters should receive the HPV vaccine. ConclusionMore than half of the study participants are willing to vaccinate their daughters with the HPV vaccine despite their poor knowledge of the assessed domains. Awareness levels of HPV and the HPV vaccine are associated with education levels. We believe raising awareness among parents is necessary to improve the acceptance level of the HPV vaccine.

Knowledge and Practices Regarding Human Papillomavirus and Cervical Cancer Screening Among Women in Low-Income Areas of China: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the primary cause of cervical cancer. However, this can be prevented through vaccination and screening. This study aimed to clarify the relationship between behavior, knowledge, and attitude toward cervical cancer and regular screening and HPV infection among women in Lueyang County. Women who underwent cervical cancer screening at the outpatient department of a maternal and child health center between September and December 2021 were invited to participate. In total, 2,303women completed the questionnaire. Women who underwent regular or irregular screening were 1:1 matched for age. Differences in knowledge of HPV and attitudes toward HPV vaccination among different populations were assessed. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors influencing HPV infection. In total, 417 pairs of women who underwent regular and irregular screening were successfully matched. Multivariate logistic regression results indicated that age is a risk factor for HPV infection (OR=1.05695%CI: [1.0311.082]), while regular screening acts as a protective factor against HPV infection (OR=0.17495%CI: [0.1170.259]). Additionally, regular screening was associated with a higher level of knowledge about HPV among women compared to those who did not undergo regular screening (p<0.001). Women in Lueyang County have low levels of knowledge regarding HPV and cervical cancer. Regular screening is a protective factor against HPV infection. The regular screening group demonstrates a higher level of HPV knowledge compared with the irregular screening group. These findings highlight the importance of regular screening and the need to strengthen public health education.

Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices among Women of Reproductive Age on Human Papillomavirus Infection, Cervical Cancer and Vaccination in Otukpo, Nigeria.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of human papilloma virus (HPV) is a necessary measure in curtailing delayed diagnosis and poor control practices. The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices vis-à-vis HPV infection, cervical cancer and vaccination among women. This cross-sectional study was conducted at 15 selected health-care facilities in Otukpo metropolis and it involved 168 pregnant women. The data were collected using structured questionnaire, and analysed for descriptive and analytical statistics using Epi Data Version 3.1 and SPSS statistical package Version 21. Most of the respondents (75.0%) have heard of human papilloma virus and their information source were mostly the health-care providers. In total, 132(78.6%) agreed to take the vaccine if offered for free but 152(90.5%) stated that it is imperative to seek the opinion of health providers before vaccine uptake. However, only 27(16.1%) have undergone recommended checkup for human papilloma virus/cervical cancer and 23(13.7%) have taken at least a vaccine dose. Some respondents 66(39.3%) had good knowledge while 95(56.6%) demonstrated positive attitude. However, most respondents 161(95.8%) demonstrated poor practices. There is enormous need to improve HPV sensitization especially in women due to cervical cancer associated risks. Healthcare personnel are therefore encouraged to create more awareness on HPV infection and screening of cervical cancer (CC) via counseling sessions and communications tool like the new media. KAP approach is a critical tool towards successful CC screening and HPV control.

Knowledge and Awareness of HPV, the HPV Vaccine and Cancer-Related HPV Types among Indigenous Australians.

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection is a common, preventable, sexually transmitted disease with oncogenic potential and increasing incidence. This study aimed to gain an understanding of the knowledge and awareness of HPV, the HPV vaccine, and HPV-related cancers, and to evaluate the relationship between participant factors and HPV knowledge, vaccination uptake, and high-risk HPV (16/18) infection, among Indigenous Australians. Data from the 12-month follow-up of a longitudinal cohort study were utilized, involving 763 Indigenous Australian adults in South Australia. The data analysis found that the mean 7-item HPV knowledge tool (HPV-KT) score was 2.3 (95% CI: 2.1-2.4), HPV vaccination prevalence was 27.0% (95% CI: 23.6-30.5) and oral HPV 16/18 infection was 4.7% (95% CI: 3.2-6.2). Multivariable log-Poisson regression models showed ratios of approximately 1.5 times higher HPV-KT scores in females, previous recreational drug users, those who had self-rated as having excellent, very good or good general health and who had heard of HPV; and participants who were not HPV vaccinated had 0.8 times (MR = 0.8, 95% CI: 0.7-0.9) lower HPV-KT scores than their counterparts. The findings suggest that culturally safe education strategies are a necessary investment to improve vaccination coverage among Indigenous Australians and to reduce the impact of HPV and related cancers.

A global study on knowledge and perception of HPV and HPV vaccination among young obstetricians and gynecologists.

Our goal is to improve the understanding of human papillomavirus (HPV) and its vaccination among obstetrics and gynecology trainees and young specialists worldwide. This cross-sectional study was conducted through an online survey consisting of 28 questions by the World Association of Trainees in Obstetrics and Gynecology between February and August 2023. The questionnaire collected demographic data of the study participants and assessed the respondents' knowledge and perception of HPV, HPV vaccines, and vaccine dosing schedule. Two hundred five Ob/Gyn trainees and young Ob/Gyns from 52 countries completed the survey. The majority of respondents were trainees (158, 77.1%). Most trainees and young Ob/Gyns learned about HPV for the first time during medical school (149, 72.6%). Almost all (204, 99.5%) Ob/Gyns responded that HPV was sexually transmitted. More than half of the respondents had not received HPV vaccination (110, 53.7%). The vaccine was recommended for respondents mostly by their Ob/Gyn senior colleagues (110, 53.7%). Most of the respondents knew how to manage HPV-positive patients (179, 87.3%). This study suggests that even though knowledge on HPV and its vaccination is satisfactory among trainees and young Ob/Gyns, HPV vaccination remains deficient. There is a need to understand, educate, and address the potential problem that lies underneath.

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

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.

Perceived barriers to self-collected HPV testing for cervical cancer screening, and knowledge of HPV: a survey of primary healthcare smear-takers across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Cervical cancer remains a burden within Aotearoa New Zealand, with 2022 screening rates sitting 12.7% below target. The National Cervical Screening Programme has changed to primary human papillomavirus (HPV) testing for all screen-eligible people, with the aim for home self-testing. Little is known about the readiness of primary care for the change to self-testing and its associated challenges. A pilot HPV cervical cancer screening programme is being conducted in 17 practice centres. The aim of this study is to explore smear-taker knowledge at these centres about the use of primary HPV testing for cervical cancer screening. This is an ethically approved questionnaire study, with data from a structured web-based questionnaire sent to all smear-takers at the pilot centres. We achieved a total completion rate of 57.8%. The average score for "Knowledge of HPV" was 56.5% (range=20-100%). The challenges to patient home HPV self-testing were felt to be overall "not at all" to "mildly challenging". Up to 73.3% of participants identified ongoing needs for further education. The findings indicate knowledge deficits regarding HPV testing for cervical cancer screening and a desire for the provision of further education. Overall, respondents felt that no major barriers to implementing HPV self-testing would occur.

Knowledge and Perceptions About Cervical Cancer and Human Papillomavirus, and Relationship with E-health Literacy, and Affecting Factors Among Female University Students.

Purpose: The aim of this study is to reveal female university students' knowledge and perceptions about cervical cancer (CC) and human papillomavirus (HPV), and relationship with e-health literacy (e-HL). It also aims to determine the predictors affecting CC and HPV. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 589 female university students in Türkiye. Data were collected using a "Cervical Cancer and HPV Awareness Questionnaire" and an "E-health Literacy Scale (e-HLS)." Analysis involved Pearson correlation analysis, Independent Sample t-test, one-way analysis of variance, and Linear Regression analysis. Results: Results indicate that female students exhibited a low level of knowledge and perception about CC and HPV. Only 2.90% of students reported being vaccinated, while 39.90% had sexual experience. Higher knowledge levels were observed among married individuals, those familiar with HPV and the HPV vaccine, those who had undergone Pap smear tests, sexually active individuals, and consistent condom users. e-HL had a positive impact on knowledge and perceived threat about CC and HPV. The affecting predictors for knowledge about CC and HPV were found to be e-HLS (β = 0.911), having prior knowledge of HPV (β = 0.201), and being aware of the HPV vaccine (β = 0.172). In terms of perceived threat, the affecting predictors were e-HLS (β = 0.207), having heard of HPV (β = 0.101), and having knowledge of the HPV vaccine (β = 0.092). Conclusion: e-HL emerged as a crucial predictor positively influencing knowledge and perceptions about CC and HPV. This suggests the potential for organizing digital health campaigns to enhance awareness and understanding of CC and HPV.

Parental Knowledge of HPV Infection, Cervical Cancer and the Acceptance of HPV Vaccination for their Children in Jos, Nigeria.

Despite the high prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections and cervical cancer in Nigeria, the utilization of the HPV vaccine as a highly effective preventive measure remains low. The aim of this study was to find out if parental knowledge of HPV infection and cervical cancer influenced the acceptance of HPV vaccines for their 9-14-year-old children. This was a cross-sectional survey of 509 parents comprising 262 fathers and 247 mothers in 8 randomly selected communities in Jos, Plateau State Nigeria. A pretested semi-structured investigator-administered questionnaire, without identifiers, was used to collect information on parental knowledge of HPV, cervical cancer, HPV vaccine and its acceptance for their 9-14-year-old children. The data were analysed using SPSS version 23.0. Bivariate analysis was done using chi-square statistical test. Point estimates with corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated with a value of P ≤ 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Five hundred and nine parents were interviewed. The mean age of the respondents was 43.7 ± 9.43 years. Most of the participants (86.1%) had formal education from primary to tertiary level. Only 1.60%, 11.60% and 1.62% of respondents had knowledge of HPV, cervical cancer and HPV vaccines respectively, whereas 67.8% of parents were willing to pay for the cancer-preventing HPV vaccines out-of-pocket. There was no statistically significant associations between parental level of education (P = 0.056), parental knowledge of cancer of cervix (P = 0.483), religion of parents (P = 0.324) and the acceptance of HPV vaccination for their children. There was a statistically significant association between parental willingness to pay for HPV vaccines if not offered free (P = 0.001) with acceptance of vaccination. Vaccine acceptability was associated with positive attitude towards the vaccine (odds ratio [OR] = 4.178; 95% CI, 1.714-10.180; P = 0.002), whereas parental knowledge of HPV, cervical cancer and HPV vaccine did not show significant association with acceptability of HPV vaccination for their children. Despite poor parental knowledge of HPV infection and cervical cancer, there was high acceptability of HPV vaccination for their children. HPV vaccination was acceptable to parents regardless of educational level or religion. Parents in Jos communities seems to have much faith in preventive vaccines as advertised by the health authorities. Accordingly, efforts should be geared towards ensuring availability, affordability and the provision of basic information regarding HPV vaccination in Northern Nigeria.

Knowledge regarding human papillomavirus and cervical cancer prevention among medical students from Chulalongkorn University in Thailand

BackgroundCervical cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women in Thailand. General practitioners, within their primary healthcare role, play a vital role in the cervical cancer screening program, as they are the healthcare professionals most easily accessible to the general population. This study aims to determine the level of knowledge of cervical cancer and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, HPV vaccination, and cervical cancer screening among last-year medical students.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among sixth-year medical students using an electronic self-administered questionnaire. The two-part questionnaire comprised demographic data and 12 true/false questions that assessed knowledge regarding HPV infection, HPV vaccination, and cervical cancer screening recommendations. Pilot testing revealed a high Cronbach’s alpha and test–retest reliability coefficient.ResultsA 67% response rate was achieved. Among the 198 respondents, only one (0.5%) student correctly answered over 80% of the questions while most respondents (172, 71.7%) correctly answered less than 60% of the questions. Less than half of the respondents correctly identified crucial aspects such as the primary cause of cervical cancer, recommended vaccination age, cytology sensitivity compared to HPV testing, and the recommended screening frequency for average-risk women.ConclusionsThis study highlights a significant lack of comprehension among Thai medical students concerning HPV infection, vaccination, and cervical cancer screening guidelines. Encouraging educational enhancement, effective communication, and heightened awareness of these crucial topics within the medical school curriculum are imperative.