Publication:

Awareness on etiology and preventive measures of cancer cervix among female medical students in Rajarajeswari Medical College, Bengaluru

Background Cervical cancer is a major cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women worldwide. Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary etiological factor. Although HPV vaccination and Pap smear screening are effective preventive measures, awareness and utilization remain inadequate in many settings. This study assessed awareness regarding cervical cancer etiology and preventive measures among female medical students.

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 female medical students at Rajarajeswari Medical College, Bengaluru. Data were collected using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire assessing knowledge regarding HPV infection, risk factors, screening and HPV vaccination. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square test were applied.

Results All participants had heard of HPV infection and cervical cancer. Awareness regarding HPV transmission through genital contact was reported by 87% of participants, while 84% identified sexually transmitted diseases as a risk factor. Pap smear as a screening method was known to 98.7% of students. Awareness regarding HPV vaccine was reported by 98.7% and 94.7% were willing to receive vaccination; however, only 38.7% had been vaccinated. Educational level showed significant association with knowledge regarding target age for HPV vaccination (p=0.035) and recommended age for first Pap smear (p=0.030).

Conclusions Awareness regarding cervical cancer and preventive measures was high among medical students, but HPV vaccine uptake remained low despite high willingness. Improved educational interventions and better vaccine accessibility are needed.