Knowledge and attitudes toward HPV vaccination among young and adolescent females attending primary health care centers in Abha, Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a leading cause of cervical cancer, posing a significant global health burden. In Saudi Arabia, approximately 10.7 million women aged 15 years and older are at risk of cervical cancer. Annually, 358 women are diagnosed, and 179 die from the disease. Despite vaccination efficacy in preventing HPV-related diseases, uptake remains low due to sociocultural factors. This study aimed to assess attitudes and perceptions toward HPV vaccination, identify sociodemographic influences, and provide insights for educational and policy interventions to improve vaccine uptake and reduce HPV-related diseases among young females attending primary health care centers in Abha, Saudi Arabia.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted (2022-2024) in Abha's primary healthcare centers, surveying 406 females aged 12-30 years. Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire on demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of HPV vaccination. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests.

Results: Of the 406 participants, 259 (63.8%) had heard of HPV, but only 84 (20.7%) knew that vaccination should begin at 9-11 years. While 247 (60.8%) were aware of the HPV vaccine, only 54 (13.3%) had received it. Among the unvaccinated, 159 (45.2%) were unaware of the vaccine, and 56 (15.9%) doubted its efficacy. Though 187 (75.4%) identified HPV as a cause of cervical cancer, 72.6% did not recognize it as the primary etiology. Only 32.3% knew the vaccine prevents cervical cancer, reflecting a knowledge gap.

Conclusion: Positive attitudes toward HPV vaccination are encouraging, but misconceptions and safety concerns persist. Educational campaigns targeting less-educated populations, integrating HPV education into schools, and engaging community leaders are crucial to increasing vaccine uptake and reducing HPV-related diseases in conservative societies.