Knowledge Of Human Papillomavirus Infection Research Articles

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.

Dutch dental hygiene students' knowledge of HPV-related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma and HPV vaccination.

The incidence of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal cancer is rising, thus the understanding of HPV infection and vaccination among oral healthcare professionals is becoming increasingly important. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge of Dutch dental hygiene students on HPV infection and vaccination and assessed various aspects of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer. This descriptive cross-sectional study invited the entire Dutch dental hygiene student population registered in September 2016 to complete an online questionnaire concerning the knowledge of HPV infection and vaccination, including the aspects of HPV-related Oro-Pharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OPSCC). Data were analysed using t-tests, Mann-Whitney U tests and Chi-square tests. Invited were all 1248 Dutch dental hygiene students and 232 (18.6%) students completed the questionnaire. More than 95% of the students indicated HPV infection as a risk factor for OPSCC and 48.7% was aware of the availability of HPV vaccination. Additionally, students considered it important to discuss HPV as a risk factor for oropharyngeal cancer with their patients. In general, the students scored highest on the questions about risk factors for OPSCC and poorest on the questions about general HPV knowledge and HPV vaccination. Although the mean overall knowledge score was significantly higher in senior compared with junior students, knowledge scores of senior students remained insufficient. This study identified deficits in knowledge of HPV and HPV vaccination among Dutch dental hygiene students. Future research should focus on improving the content of dental hygiene curricula and development of ongoing educational tools for dental hygienists.

Comparison of awareness, attitudes and knowledge on human papilloma virus vaccination in Singapore: 2019 versus 2013.

This study aimed to assess the changes in the awareness, attitudes and knowledge regarding human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among the local population. The secondary aims were to identify barriers and to evaluate the effectiveness of national HPV vaccination campaigns over a six-year period in Singapore. We conducted and compared two cross-sectional surveys in 2013 and 2019 among female participants attending a general gynaecology clinic. A total of 597 participants completed the survey in 2013 and 2019. The participants were comparable in their race, marital status, educational level, occupation and monthly household income. Knowledge scores for cervical cancer and HPV infection showed significant improvement from 2013 to 2019. There was no significant difference in knowledge scores for HPV vaccination, which resulted in similar uptake of the HPV vaccine. Age, educational level and knowledge of HPV vaccine were significant predictors of acceptance of the HPV vaccine. The top two reasons for declining the HPV vaccine were the lack of knowledge and cost, as noted in the 2019 survey. The Singapore government's efforts to improve cervical cancer awareness through national campaigns and policy changes have led to an improvement in knowledge of HPV infection. However, this has not translated into improvements in the vaccine acceptance rates. The decision for vaccine uptake is complex, and there are multiple factors to be addressed to ensure cost-effective implementation of the strategies. Our study highlights the need for effective dissemination of vaccine information, additional subsidies and consideration of a mandatory school-based vaccination programme.

Effect of an educational intervention on knowledge of human papillomavirus infection among university students in Turkey: A quasi-experimental study

Aim: This study aimed to determine the knowledge level of university students outside the health field on human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and evaluate the efficacy of educational interventions provided on HPV infection. Method and Material: This was a quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test design. This study was conducted on undergraduate students outside the health field at a public university in Izmir. HPV education was provided to the students in classes with a PowerPoint presentation, and the “Fall in Love, Not in HPV” brochure was distributed. Results: Of 873 students participating in the pretest, 48.7% and 42.5% heard of HPV infection and vaccine, respectively. While the response rates of the students participating in the pretest of the 16-question HPV knowledge survey ranged from 13.9% to 58.8%, a significant (51.4%–91.6%) increase was observed in the percentage of answers to the posttest HPV questions after the educational intervention (p < 0.001). The total HPV knowledge score was 5.17±4.33in the pre-test, and the post-test was 13.37±2.66 (p<0.001). The biggest barriers to those who did not want to be vaccinated were the cost of the vaccine and the lack of information about HPV infection. Conclusion: The educational intervention has greatly increased the knowledge of HPV infection among university students. Continuing education programs are needed to bridge the knowledge gap on HPV infection and HPV-related diseases among young adults.

Human Papillomavirus Knowledge and Cervical Cancer Screening Practice among Uzbekistan Women

Background: Data on the knowledge of the general population of Uzbekistan regarding human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and cervical cancer screening practices are limited. This study aimed to assess the association between the knowledge and practice of cervical cancer screening among women in Uzbekistan. Methods: A baseline survey was conducted with 445 women aged 20–59 years who visited one of the three health centres of Tashkent, Uzbekistan, in December 2020. A questionnaire on the knowledge of HPV infection and cervical cancer screening practices was administered. The knowledge score, defined as the sum of the number of correct answers to the knowledge questions and the prevalence of cervical cancer screening practices, was analysed. The adjusted relative risk (RR) and low knowledge score (<median) of (1) never screened and (2) not screened within 2 years for each demographic characteristic were calculated. Results: The median knowledge score was 10. Women who had been screened for cervical cancer accounted for 63.1% of the patients. Among them, 64.8% reported that their last cervical cancer screening test was within 2 years. A history of sexually transmitted diseases was associated with a lower risk of never being screened (adjusted RR = 0.43, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.24, 0.78) and no screening within 2 years (0.54, 95% CI 0.30, 0.99). No university graduation was associated with a higher risk of not screening within 2 years (1.57, 95% CI 1.00, 2.47). Association between knowledge of HPV status and screening practices was not observed. Conclusions: Adequate knowledge of HPV and cervical cancer prevention may be insufficient for cervical cancer screening practices. This study provides context for the development of effective cervical cancer prevention strategies.

Acceptance, Awareness, and Knowledge of Human Papillomavirus Vaccine in Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus infection and can lead to different epithelial lesions and cancer. Nevertheless, HPV infection is a disease that can be prevented with vaccine. Genital warts, cancer, and HPV infections can all be prevented with this vaccine. In this study, we aimedto investigate awareness, knowledge of HPV infection,and acceptanceof its vaccine among the general population in Saudi Arabia. An observational cross-sectional study was conducted inEastern Province, Saudi Arabia between September and October 2022, using a self-administered validated questionnaire. beginning with informedconsent, followed by questions about demographic data. Finally, there were questions about participants' knowledge, awareness, and attitudes around HPV and its vaccine. Rustles: The results showed 645 participants and only 4% of them had received their HPV vaccination. Knowledge, awareness, and attitude levels were all 35% with mean of 1.14, 28% with mean of 3.03, and 51%with mean of 2.02, respectively. Social media was found to be the most reliable source of information about the HPV vaccine (33%), followed by health practitioners (21%). The most common reasons for refusing vaccinations are "belief we are healthy" (48%), followed by "lack of information" (38%). Regarding HPV infection and itsvaccination, Saudi Arabia significantly lacks knowledge and awareness. It is essential to provide instructions and information in schools for students, families, and healthcare providers about infection and its vaccination.

HPV self-sampling acceptability among women in Italy: preliminary results of a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Secondary prevention measures have strongly contributed to the reduction of incidence and mortality of cervical cancer (CC) identifying women at high risk of developing it. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the acceptability of a home-based self-sampling methodology for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) testing and the factors that may influence women’s preference. Methods A random sample of women over the age of 50 years has been selected in Southern part of Italy. Data was collected through an anonymous self-administered questionnaire and included socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of HPV infection and prevention measures, and attitudes towards the acceptability of self-collected cervico-vaginal sampling (CVS) and urine sampling (US). Results Among the 321 women who completed the survey, more than two-thirds (73.7%) knew that CC is caused by HPV, only 68.9% knew that the HPV screening is useful for an early detection and diagnosis of CC, and 17% never had Pap-test or HPV-DNA test. Of the respondents, 67.9% declared that they preferred self-collected US for future HPV testing compared with clinician-taken cervical samples (CCS). The most common reasons reported for preferring US included that it was easier (54.8%), more convenient (28.7%), and less embarrassing (21.7%). Among those women who showed negative attitude towards self-collected US, 8 out of 10 (77.3%) expressed scepticism about its diagnostic performance. Only 37% of the sample preferred CVS, and this attitude is mainly attributable to the fear of not carrying out a correct self-sampling (71.2%) and to its underrated diagnostic performance (33.7%). Conclusions The preliminary results suggest that US is more acceptable than CCS and CVS in Italy. Urinary HPV test presents similar accuracy of the latter tests to detect CC and its supply in the context of population-based screening programmes could improve adherence, reducing the cost and burden on physicians. Key messages • Urine self-sampling could represent an innovative early detection approach to increase adherence to cervical cancer screening programmes. • Further research is needed to assess whether the screening status and the strategy of self-samplers distribution could act as predictors of screening uptake.

Predictors of Knowledge of Human Papillomavirus Infection and Its Related Diseases: A Study of Women in a Nigerian Tertiary Institution

Background: The burden of HPV infection and its diseases is very high in Sub-Saharan Africa and unfortunately many vulnerable women in this region have little or no knowledge about the infection and its diseases. Bearing in mind the vital role knowledge plays in disease prevention and control, our study aimed to assess women’s knowledge about relevant aspects of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection & its related diseases and to predict the factors that influence their knowledge. Material and methods: A cross-sectional study conducted among 500 women attending a tertiary health institution in Nigeria using a self-administered structured questionnaire to assess knowledge about HPV infection, its related diseases and associated risk factors. Knowledge scores were derived, participants were categorized into having either good or poor knowledge and factors associated with good knowledge were assessed. Data was analyzed was using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23.0. Results: The knowledge of HPV infection & its diseases was poor with only 26.3% (123/468) of participants having good level of knowledge. Worse still, only 21.4% believed that they were at risk of acquiring the infection. Tertiary education (AOR=2.40, CI=1.30-4.44, P=0.005), low parity (AOR=4.22, CI=1.40-12.66, P=0.011), and having electronic media (AOR=6.06, CI=2.86-12.9, P<0.001), print media (AOR=4.00, CI=1.21-13.16, P=0.023), healthcare professionals (HCP) (AOR=6.30, CI=3.56-11.11, P<0.001) and organized program (AOR=13.16, CI=5.08-34.48, P<0.001) as primary sources of information significantly predicted good knowledge of HPV infection & its related diseases. Conclusion: Knowledge of HPV infection and its related diseases is very low among Nigerian women in our study. Tertiary education, low parity and having electronic media, print media, HCP and organized health programs as primary sources of information significantly predicted of good knowledge. Health education through these information channels may help to bridge the gap in knowledge and improve public knowledge about HPV and its related diseases.

Knowledge, Attitudes and HPV Vaccine Intention Among Women in India.

In India, cervical cancer associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women. However, uptake of the vaccine in India is low. We assessed knowledge and attitudes towards HPV, assess participants' willingness to accept the vaccination for themselves and their children, and determine factors associated with intention to receive the HPV vaccine among women in Mangalore, India. This cross-sectional study surveyed a convenient sample of 237 women aged 18-45years using a semi-structured questionnaire. All respondents reported being aware of HPV infection. However, 22.36% (n = 53) of the respondents have never heard about genital warts and 18.57% (n = 44) have never heard about HPV vaccine. Participants displayed good general knowledge of HPV infection (median score, 1.26; Interquartile Range (IQR): 1.04-1.52) and average knowledge of HPV vaccine (e.g., median score, 1.18; IQR: 0.73-1.45). HPV general knowledge and vaccine knowledge were associated with intention to receive the HPV vaccine and recommend it to children. Participant awareness of the HPV vaccine predicted vaccine intent for themselves. Participants' willingness to recommend the vaccine for their children was associated with older age, married status, having one or more children, and having a college education. Lack of awareness about genital warts was strongly associated with participants' refusal to get the HPV vaccine or recommend it for their own children (Relative Risk Ratio RRR: 12.21; 95% C.I.: 2.33-63.99). Our study validated the questionnaire as a reliable tool for assessing HPV and HPV vaccine knowledge, attitudes, awareness, and vaccine intentions in women aged 18-45years. Public health education should focus on increasing awareness of genital warts as a sequela of HPV, as well as promote awareness of role and safety of HPV vaccination in -children.

Abstract PO-029: Community coalition and academic need assessment: Our first step for the development of an educational intervention on HPV vaccination targeting school staff during pandemic era in Puerto Rico

Abstract Introduction: Implementation of school-entry policies for vaccination for human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination (HPV-PIVac study) is a five-year prospective study started in 2018 to evaluate the implementation of the HPV vaccine as a requirement for school entry in Puerto Rico. As part of these study efforts, we organized a Community Advisory Board (CAB) whose members are from government and private organizations, coalitions, and community-based organizations working for HPV prevention. As part of the preliminary results of the HPV-PIVac study presented to the CAB, key informant interviews demonstrated the lack of knowledge and the need to train school staff on the HPV vaccine and its school policy. CAB members worked on an educational initiative about vaccines to respond to these barriers, called Puerto Rico Libre de Enfermedades Prevenibles (Puerto Rico Free of Preventable Diseases). As a first step, a needs assessment survey was conducted to identify the most significant topics of interest and need issues about vaccines and the new HPV vaccine school requirement in this population. Methods: In February 2020, CAB members distributed a self-administration survey during the 2019-2020 Education Congress, an event in which teaching and non-teaching staff from the island's private education sector assisted in continuing education training. Data collection was gathered by convenience sampling. The survey collected the following variables: knowledge of the HPV school-entry policy, knowledge of HPV infection and the HPV vaccine, confidence in talking to parents about the HPV vaccine, and information of interest about the HPV vaccine. Results: A total of 76 participants were recruited. The largest number of participants (73%) were teachers, and 19% were school directors. At least 61% of the participants were unaware of the HPV vaccine as a requirement to enter school. We identified an insufficient knowledge of the following items: HPV-related cancers (43%) and HPV vaccine series (32%). Only 21% of school personnel reported been prepared to talk to parents about the HPV vaccine. According to the participants' responses, the top five information about HPV that they were interested in were: (1) Side effects of the vaccine; (2) Effectiveness of the vaccine, (3) Safety of the vaccine; (4) Messages to give to parents; and (5) Information on HPV vaccination policy. Conclusion: Through the need assessment, we were able to identify topics that should be addressed as information about the HPV vaccination series, HPV-associated cancers, HPV vaccine school entry policy, safety and effectiveness of the HPV vaccine. Based on this data, we developed an educational curriculum for the initiative. The collaboration of the different members of the CAB was essential to carry out this first step. Citation Format: VOCES PR Coalition, Josheili S. Llavona, Diana T. Medina Laabes, Omayra Salgado Cruz, JAC-HPV-PIVac PR, Roxana Soto Abreu, Olga L. Diaz Miranda, Marta M. Sánchez Aracil, Vivian Colón-López. Community coalition and academic need assessment: Our first step for the development of an educational intervention on HPV vaccination targeting school staff during pandemic era in Puerto Rico [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: 14th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2021 Oct 6-8. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-029.

Survey on the knowledge level and attitudes of university students about human papilloma virus infection and vaccination and assessing healthy living behaviors

This study was carried out to determine the knowledge and attitude about human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and vaccination and healthy lifestyle behaviors of female university students. Students completed a form containing socio-demographic data and questions about HPV infection and vaccination and the Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale-II (HLBS). For the analysis of the data, percentage, mean, standard deviation, T-test, and one-way ANOVA test were used in independent groups. The mean age of the female students was 19.53 ± 1.57. Of the students, 74.7% (n = 470) had no knowledge about cervical cancer, 80.6% (n = 507) had no knowledge about HPV, and 1.7% (n = 11) had had the HPV vaccination. “Not know” to all the statements about HPV infection and vaccination is high in general. The total score of the HLBS was 126.43 ± 17.70. The mean scores of the HLBS subgroup were the highest in the aspects of spiritual development and interpersonal relations. The HLBS total scores of those who know about the HPV vaccine were higher than those who do not know and those who have insufficient knowledge. Knowledge of HPV infection and vaccination is important for young women. It is necessary to develop healthy lifestyle behaviors during university education.

Effectiveness of Video Assisted Teaching on Knowledge among ASHA Workers Regarding HPV Infection in a Selected Rural Community of Mangaluru, India

Introduction: Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a major aetiological agent for cervical cancer, the second most common cancer in the world. The main role of Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) includes, motivating women to give birth in hospitals, bringing children to immunisation clinics, encouraging family planning, treating minor ailments, keeping demographic records, and improving village sanitation. In the community, ASHA create awareness on health and its social determinants and mobilise the community towards local health planning and increased utilisation and accountability of the existing health services. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of video-assisted teaching on knowledge regarding HPV infection among ASHA workers. Materials and Methods: A pre-test post-test design was adapted for this study. Fifty-eight ASHA workers were selected using a convenience sampling method. A pre-test was conducted to assess the existing knowledge on HPV infection with the help of structured knowledge questionnaire, followed by Video-Assisted Teaching on HPV infection and seven days later a post-test was done. Interpretation of score of knowledge questionnaire between 1-5 was considered as poor knowledge, 6-10 an average knowledge, 11-15 good knowledge and 16-20 excellent knowledge. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The p-value less than 0.05 were considered to be significant by Z-test. Results: The knowledge of HPV infection was improved noticeably after the video-assisted teaching program as the pre-test mean knowledge score was 7.19±2.55, and the post-test score was 13.10±1.95 at p<0.05. Statistically significant effectiveness of the video-assisted teaching program was established using Willcoxon signed-rank test (Z-value=-6.56 with p<0.05); however, no significant association was found between the pre-test level knowledge and demographic variables. Conclusion: Knowledge of HPV infection among peripheral community workers is vital as it can influence the broader population and avoid this preventable disease condition at the grass root level. The current study revealed that a video-assisted teaching program on HPV infection effectively improved the knowledge level of ASHA workers.

Knowledge and awareness of human papillomavirus (HPV) among young adults – a cross-sectional study

Background. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases and is incriminated in a large proportion of cervical, oral and other genital cancers. HPV vaccination was first introduced in 2004 in women, but recently there have been debates about extending the vaccination programme to men. Objective. To measure the knowledge and awareness of human papillomavirus infection among young adults. Subjects and method. The participants are medical students, selected from a larger sample, who completed an anonymous web-based survey measuring awareness and knowledge of HPV infection. The subsample contains 169 students in the age range 18-20 years old, with 32.5% men, who had fully completed the survey. Results. Overall, 70.4% of the sample had heard about HPV before. The awareness of HPV was similar between women (74.6%) and men (61.8%) (p=0.089), but was higher with seniority in medical studies (p=0.020). Among those who had heard about HPV before, while only 4.2% had been HPV vaccinated, 71% knew that the prevention of cervical cancer was possible through HPV vaccination. The highest knowledge score was 18 (out of 23), with a median of 11. The most missed answers were related to questions regarding the types of HPV included in the tetravalent vaccine (12/119 correct answers), and other types of cancer where HPV is incriminated (18/119 correct answers). Conclusions. Our survey indicates that medical students have poor knowledge of HPV and low HPV vaccination rates. These have important implications in prevention strategy. Increasing knowledge about the implications of HPV infection may encourage primary and secondary cervical cancer prevention programs.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Saudi physicians regarding cervical cancer and the human papilloma virus vaccine

BackgroundCervical cancer is considered the second most common type of cancer in women worldwide, with a reported 570,000 incident cases documented each year. Infection with certain types of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) has been found to be associated with more than 99% of cervical cancers. The HPV vaccine can prevent HPV infection and most cases of cervical cancers; however the uptake of this vaccine remains low in Saudi Arabia. Physicians can play a vital role in providing their patients with objective information regarding the HPV vaccine, yet little is known about their knowledge, attitudes, and practices in this area. Materials and methodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study in King Abdul-Aziz Medical City (KAMC), Central Region, Saudi Arabia where data were collected through an online questionnaire to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of physicians. ResultsMost physicians (61%) displayed a good level of knowledge about cervical cancer; 94% were knowledgeable of the causative link between (HPV) infection and cervical cancer. Family medicine physicians had better knowledge regarding cervical cancer, HPV, and HPV vaccination than pediatricians (p=0.023). Physicians with >10 years of practice had better knowledge of cervical cancer than other respondents (p=0.041). 80% of the sample thought it was important for women to receive the HPV vaccine and 82% stated they would allow their daughters to be given the HPV vaccine. Lack of parental knowledge of the vaccine was significantly (p=0.034) associated with a lack of knowledge about HPV, and this was one of the most common barriers preventing recommendation of the HPV vaccine. ConclusionWith the increasing prevalence of HPV infections, better knowledge of HPV infection, HPV-related diseases, and the availability of HPV vaccinations from health professionals will assist with the implementation of effective prevention and treatment programmes.

A National Survey of Canadian Adults on HPV: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Barriers to the HPV Vaccine.

Identifying human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination motivators and barriers among adults could lead to new approaches to improve HPV vaccination rates in non-pediatric populations. This Canadian survey aimed to assess current knowledge of, attitudes towards, and barriers to the HPV vaccine among the general public. An online panel was used to survey HPV unvaccinated women (n = 802) and vaccinated women (n = 250) 18 to 45 years old, as well as 18- to 26-year-old men (n = 200), in May and June 2016. A 16-item questionnaire collected data on sociodemographic factors, health-seeking behaviours, knowledge of HPV infection and its consequences, and the HPV vaccine. Data were stratified by sex and by vaccination status among women. The majority of individuals somewhat or strongly agreed that vaccination is an important aspect of disease prevention (vaccinated women, 93%; unvaccinated women, 85%; and men, 59%). However, a high proportion of patients were concerned about vaccine safety (vaccinated women, 26%; unvaccinated women, 40%; and men, 36%). Moreover, 58% to 61% of participants were generally cautious about taking any vaccine. The number one reported barrier to vaccination was not having a recommendation from a doctor (38%). Cost was seen as a barrier by only 18% to 20% of participants. Canadian participants show a broad diversity in HPV knowledge and regarding barriers to vaccination. The youngest populations (vaccinated women and men) showed higher levels of knowledge regarding HPV.

The vaccinaTion & Hpv Knowledge (THinK) questionnaire: a reliability and validity study on a sample of women living in Sicily (southern-Italy).

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to introduce the VaccinaTion & Hpv Knowledge (THinK) questionnaire to assess knowledge about human papillomavirus (HPV) and attitude to HPV-vaccination. Its reliability and validity was demonstrated in a sample of women living in Sicily (southern Italy).MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted on a sample of 220 women at the “Paolo Giaccone” University Hospital in Palermo (Sicily), aged 18–61. Data were analyzed through Cronbach’s alpha and exploratory factor analysis, followed by a structural equation model with measurement component. The two-level data structure was explicitly considered.ResultsThree dimensions were found: “knowledge of HPV infection (kHPV), “Attitude to be vaccinated against HPV (aHPV)” and “Knowledge about vaccines (KV)” (97% overall explained variance). Internal consistency was good for the whole questionnaire (0.82) and the first dimension (0.88) and acceptable for the second (0.78) and the third dimension (0.73). 23% of women showed no or little knowledge of HPV and 44.3% of women had no or little knowledge about HPV induced lesions.DiscussionThe use of a validated questionnaire may serve as a useful measure to assess general knowledge about HPV and attitude towards vaccination against HPV in the primary prevention setting.

Community-based household assessment of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination coverage and acceptability – HPV vaccine demonstration program, Cambodia – 2017

BackgroundIn 2017, the Cambodia Ministry of Health introduced human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine through primarily school-based vaccination targeting 9-year-old girls. Vaccination with a two-dose series of HPV vaccine took place in six districts in two provinces as a demonstration program, to better understand HPV vaccine delivery in Cambodia. MethodsWe conducted a community-based coverage survey using a one-stage sampling design to evaluate dose-specific vaccination coverage among eligible girls (those born in 2007 and residents in the areas targeted by the campaign). The household-level survey also assessed factors associated with vaccine acceptability and communication strategies. Trained data collectors interviewed caregivers and girls using a standard questionnaire; vaccination cards and health facility records were reviewed. ResultsOf the 7594 households visited in the two provinces, 315 girls were enrolled in the survey (188 in Siem Reap; 127 in Svay Rieng). Documented two-dose HPV vaccination coverage was 84% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 78–88%) overall [85% (95% CI: 78–90%) in Siem Reap; 82% (95% CI: 73–88%) in Svay Rieng.] Almost all girls (>99%) were reported to be enrolled in school and over 90% of respondents reported receipt of vaccine in school. Knowledge of HPV infection and associated diseases was poor among caregivers and girls; however, 58% of caregivers reported “protection from cervical cancer” as the primary reason for the girl receiving vaccine. No serious adverse events after immunization were reported. ConclusionsThe HPV vaccine demonstration program in Cambodia achieved high two-dose coverage among eligible girls in both provinces targeted for vaccination in 2017, through primarily school-based vaccination. High school enrollment and strong microplanning and coordination were seen throughout the campaign. Cambodia will use lessons learned from this demonstration program to prepare for national introduction of HPV vaccine.

Exploring Chinese Women's Perception of Cervical Cancer Risk as It Impacts Screening Behavior: A Qualitative Study.

Chinese women rarely undergo regular cervical screening. Women's decisions about cervical screening may be influenced by their perception of the risk of cervical cancer. Therefore, understanding how women perceive the risk of cervical cancer, how personal risk factors are interpreted, and the influence of cultural issues on cervical screening behavior is important. The aim of this study is to understand cervical cancer risk perception and the role of personal risk factors as they influence screening behavior among Chinese women. An exploratory qualitative research design was used. We conducted semistructured, in-depth interviews of 27 women in Changsha, a medium-size city in Hunan province, China. Participants identified that cervical cancer had serious consequences, but they distanced themselves psychologically from the disease because they felt that "cervical cancer is a shameful and deadly disease." Although women identified some of the risk factors for the disease, they had little specific knowledge of human papillomavirus infection, its association with cervical cancer, and the importance of cervical screening. This study contributes new knowledge to the understanding of cervical screening behavior within a specific social and cultural context. Better efforts should be made to educate Chinese women on the risk of cervical cancer and emphasize that effective cancer treatments are available and that there is a good chance of survival. Nurses working with Chinese women should ensure that the information they provide is culturally sensitive, particularly by acknowledging the normative beliefs of this population group.

Knowledge, attitudes, practices and willingness to vaccinate in preparation for the introduction of HPV vaccines in Bamako, Mali

Although screening for pre-cancerous cervical lesions and human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination are accepted and effective means to prevent cervical cancer, women in Mali have limited access to these interventions. In addition, cervical cancer prevention by HPV vaccination has been controversial in some settings. To reduce cervical cancer prevalence and increase HPV vaccine uptake, it is important to understand the level of knowledge about cervical cancer screening and practices related to vaccination in at-risk populations. In this study, the level of knowledge about HPV and cervical cancer and attitudes towards vaccination were assessed among 301 participants (male and female, adults and adolescents) in a house-to-house survey in two urban neighborhoods in Bamako, Mali. The survey was combined with a brief educational session on HPV. Prior to the education session, overall knowledge of HPV infection and cervical cancer was very low: only 8% knew that HPV is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Less than 20% of women had ever consulted a gynecologist and less than 3% had ever had cervical cancer screening. After hearing a description of HPV vaccine, more than 80% would accept HPV vaccination; fathers and husbands were identified as primary decisions makers and local clinics or the home as preferred sites for vaccination. This study provides information on STI knowledge and vaccine acceptance in Bamako, Mali in 2012, prior to the introduction of HPV vaccination.

Abstract A60: AWARENESS AND KNOWLEDGE OF HUMANPAPILLOMAVIRUS AND HPV VACCINE AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN NORTH IBADAN, NIGERIA: A PREVENTIVE TOOL FOR FUTURE LEADERS

Abstract To asses the level of awareness and knowledge of Human papillomavirus (HPV), cervical cancer (CC) and Human papilomavirus vaccine (HPVV) among adolescents in senior secondary school in Ibadan North, Nigeria. This cross-sectional descriptive study carried out among 160 female and male adolescents in two private and two public senior secondary school of Ibadan North Local Government. A semi-structured questionnaire which included questions relating to level of awareness and knowledge of Human papillomavirus infection, cervical cancer and human papillomavirus vaccine was used to obtain information from the respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square test (p<0.05). Respondents' mean age was 13.0±1.7 year and more than half of the respondents were female (51.9%), majority of the respondents were in grade 10 (39.4%) and grade 12(33.8%) respectively, 87.3% of the respondents live with both parents. Sixty-eight percent of the respondents have heard of HPV, the main sources of information were from school (41.2%),mass media (27.5%) and seminar attended (13.7%) respectively,32% of the respondents knew that HPV is a sexually transmitted infection,31.8% acknowledge it as viral infection and 35.8% agreed that it can infect both male and female,41.9% agreed that it transmitted through sharing of toiletries and sharp objects,30% were aware that it can be transmitted through sexual intercourse while 28% of the respondents believed that early age of sexual debut is a risk factor and having multiple sexual partners predisposes to HPV infection while 29.4% of the respondents agreed that engaging in an unprotected sex is a risk factor for transmitting HPV infection. However, 41.3% of the respondents who were aware and knowledgeable that abstinence is a good measure for preventing HPV infection. Only 15.6% have heard of HPVV, 18.8% were aware that it can prevent it and HPVV is meant for both male and female. Living with parent and being in either private or public school was not statistical significant with the knowledge of HPV (p>0.70), categories of classes of the respondent was not significantly associated with their knowledge of HPV vaccine (p>0.63), there is significant relationship between the gender and awareness that having multiple sexual partner predisposes to HPV (p<0.009). Level of awareness and knowledge of HPV infection, cervical cancer and HPV vaccine were very low among the adolescents, programmers that promote knowledge should be incorporated into the curriculum, teachers of various school be updated. Keywords: Human papillomavirus infection, adolescents, HPV vaccine, knowledge Citation Format: OLUBUNMI OLABISI ADETULE. AWARENESS AND KNOWLEDGE OF HUMANPAPILLOMAVIRUS AND HPV VACCINE AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN NORTH IBADAN, NIGERIA: A PREVENTIVE TOOL FOR FUTURE LEADERS. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr A60.