Publication:

Assessing the prevalence, gender differences and factors associated with human papillomavirus vaccination among medical students of a tertiary care hospital: a cross-sectional study

Background Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination protects individuals from HPV-related cancers, especially cervical cancer. Globally, we see underutilization of HPV vaccination, and the situation remains unfavorable in India, where cultural constraints along with insufficient education about HPV create significant challenges to vaccination adoption.

Methods This cross-sectional study enrolled 350 medical students from a tertiary care hospital in Karnataka. The study assessed student’s knowledge levels, vaccination state, and attitudes. Statistical calculations through statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) v26 produced results that analyzed descriptive and inferential statistics and evaluated the relationships between variables.

Results HPV vaccination rates among students were relatively low, with only 10% of students receiving HPV vaccination. The understanding of HPV and its vaccine showed greater levels among female students (56.8%) over male students (43.2%). Factors influencing vaccine uptake included when students had better knowledge about HPV transmission and positive views on vaccine effectiveness and cervical cancer prevention benefits. Students faced primary obstacles to vaccine adoption because they were not aware of vaccine information, had incorrect perceptions about vaccine recommendations, and were worried about social discrimination. Most of the students (72%) showed positive attitudes that vaccine benefits health in the future. Females displayed superior awareness about HPV risks, vaccine-related advantages, compared to males.

Conclusion A total of 66% of students showed an intention to get the HPV vaccine. Medical students generally understand HPV-related diseases and prevention practices. Several knowledge gaps demand additional educational content about HPV diseases and vaccine advantages to be included in the medical learning programs.