Awareness, knowledge about human papillomavirus and attitude towards its vaccine among university students: A Bangladeshi pilot study

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the level of awareness and knowledge regarding HPV infection and attitude towards HPV vaccination among the students of Jahangirnagar University (Dhaka, Bangladesh). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a random sample of 400 students recruited from different disciplines of the University. A self-administered (paper-and-pencil) questionnaire was used to collect data. Results: Among the participants, 177 (44.3%) were males, and 134 (33.5%) were studying in biology disciplines (meanSD of age: 21.461.93 years). While assessing awareness of HPV, over 60% (257) students reported that they had already heard of HPV (human papillomavirus). In terms of demographic variables, findings revealed that `being female', `being Graduate', and `being students of biology disciplines' were found to be significant predictors of students' higher level of HPV awareness. Among those aware of HPV, detailed knowledge gaps regarding HPV infection were observed. Only less than half (38.5%) knew that HPV does not show any symptoms and nearly 33% of students were aware that both men and women can get HPV infection. Less than half (47.9%) correctly identified genital skin-to-skin as a mode of transmission. About 42% of students were knowledgeable about the causative relationship between HPV and genital warts, but a few (36.2%) knew that HPV infection may lead to the development of penile cancer. In terms of prevention, only 40.2% knew that the vaccine is a preventive measure of HPV. Only 3.5% (n=14) of the students (females, n=14 and males, n=00) reported to be vaccinated against HPV. Lack of information about the vaccine (53.4%) had been reported as the main reason for not being vaccinated. The modest percentage (59.33%) showed their willingness to get the HPV vaccine. Gender, education level, and marital status were three main factors found influencing students' willingness to receive the vaccine. Conclusion: The results of the study revealed that students were aware of HPV, but detailed knowledge about the infection was poor. Students had a poor understanding of the modes of transmission, health problems associated with HPV and prevention of HPV. Health educational programs can be organized to increase knowledge and awareness about HPV infection.