Knowledge and awareness toward human papillomavirus vaccination among Saudi female nursing students.

Abstract

Introduction: Human Papillomavirus is a sexually transmitted agent, causing cervical cancer. In Saudi Arabia, cervical cancer is ranked as the ninth most common carcinoma in women. HPV vaccine is an effective prevention method against HPV high-risk types such as HPV 18 and 16. Research on HPV vaccine knowledge and awareness is limited due to the lack of extensive data reportage on HPV and cervical cancer cases among Saudi women.

Aim: This study was aimed to determine the knowledge and awareness of human papillomavirus vaccination among Saudi nursing female students.

Methods: This study was cross-sectional and included (n = 114) participants. The study used an online survey, which included demographical variables and the HPV knowledge scale. The data were collected from October 10, 2023, until January 3, 2024. Descriptive data, Mann-Whitney Z-tests and nonparametric tests were used to analyze the study's findings.

Results: The study participants' mean age was 20.8 years (SD 1.6). Most students (72%) did not receive the HPV vaccine. The overall mean HPV knowledge was 10.0 (SD 7.08). The HPV knowledge subscales showed poor levels of knowledge of HPV infection, screening, and vaccines: 5.15 (SD 3.87), 1.39 (SD 1.34), and 2.06 (SD 1.87), respectively.

Discussion: In conclusion, Saudi Arabia having a predominantly youthful population, it is crucial to implement educational programs that improve the understanding and awareness of HPV infection among nursing students and other health professionals. There is a necessity to establish impactful awareness campaigns and integrate interventional research to inform health professionals and the public about the disease and dispel misunderstandings and cultural beliefs about HPV and HPV vaccines to prevent cervical cancers among young females.