Knowledge and Attitude towards HPV, PAP Testing and HPV Vaccination among Women with HIV

Abstract

Background: Although cancer prevention strategies have resulted in a dramatic reduction in the overall cervical cancer burden in developed countries, among women with HIV the problem remains unabated. Several studies have identified limited knowledge as a major contributory factor for cervical cancer especially in vulnerable populations like women with HIV. Objective: To determine the knowledge and attitudes of HPV, Pap smear testing and HPV vaccination among women with HIV utilizing the health belief model as a guiding framework for the study. Methods: 50 HIV positive women in the 21-64 age groups were purposively sampled from the HIV clinic in San Fernando General Hospital, South Trinidad. Data were collected using an administered questionnaire with a 100% response rate after receiving ethical approval. Results: Respondents were generally knowledgeable about Pap Smear testing but had limited knowledge about HPV and HPV vaccination. Most respondents were unaware that HPV infection was a risk factor for cervical cancer. Many respondents knew that the purpose of pap testing and the recommended Pap testing guidelines for women with HIV. Although most respondents 43 (86%) considered Pap Smear testing to be important it was not a regular practice. The main reasons for not having regular Pap test include the procedure is embarrassing and painful, fear of a cervical cancer diagnosis, reluctance to be examined by male doctor and not being asked to do Pap test by healthcare professionals. Respondents also had a negative attitude when asked if they would recommend the vaccine to friends and relatives. Conclusion: While women with HIV may be knowledgeable of the risk associated with cervical cancer, this does not necessarily translate into effective screening behaviours. The findings of this study demonstrate the need for an organized and integrated cervical cancer screening program for women with HIV as an integral component of management.