A study to assess knowledge, awareness and attitude towards HPV vaccination among young adults in a tertiary health care setting
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-1770.ijrcog20262104Keywords:
Awareness, Cervical cancer, HPV, HPV vaccination, Vaccine hesitancy, Young adultsAbstract
Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide and is a major etiological factor for cervical cancer and several other anogenital malignancies. Despite the availability of highly effective vaccines, HPV vaccination coverage remains suboptimal in many developing countries. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge, awareness and attitude regarding HPV vaccination among young adults in a tertiary health care setting.
Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among 100 young adults aged 17-25 years in a tertiary health care teaching institution between January and March 2026. Data were collected using a structured and prevalidated questionnaire distributed through Google Forms. Information regarding knowledge of HPV infection, awareness of HPV vaccination, vaccination status and attitudes towards vaccination was collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results: Among the 100 participants, 96% had heard of HPV and 89% were aware that a vaccine against HPV is available. Eighty-five percent correctly identified cervical cancer and genital warts as HPV-related diseases. Ninety percent considered HPV vaccination important and 82% expressed willingness to receive vaccination. However, only 18% had been vaccinated. Lack of information, vaccine cost, fear of side effects and social stigma were the major barriers identified.
Conclusions: Although awareness and acceptance of HPV vaccination were generally satisfactory among young adults, actual vaccination uptake remained low. Educational interventions, increased accessibility and targeted awareness programmes are needed to improve HPV vaccine coverage.
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