The knowledge level of medical students about cervical cancer and their attitudes towards Human Papilloma Virus vaccine

Abstract

Objective: Our aim in this study is to determine the knowledge level of the students of the faculty of medicine about cervical cancer, prevention methods from this cancer, and their general attitudes towards HPV vaccine. Material and Method: This descriptive study was conducted with 5th and 6th grade medical students who applied to family medicine outpatient clinic of the university for any reason between September 2020 and November 2020. A questionnaire form consisting of 18 questions was applied as a face-to-face interview. Results: 192 students participated in the study. The average age of the participants was 23.7 ± 1.96 years (min = 20-max = 42). 62% (n = 119) of them were female and 38% (n = 73) of them were male. While 45% of the participants (n=88) were staying with their family, 54.2% (n=104) were not with their families. Those of the female gender knew more about HPV. In addition, those who want to be HPV vaccinated for themselves, those who want to have her daughter HPV vaccinated, those who want to be HPV vaccinated even if it is paid, and those who want to be HPV vaccinated if it is paid by social security were found to be significantly different in female gender. No significant relationship was found between staying with the family and knowledge and attitudes. Conclusion: Our study was conducted among medical faculty students, and most of the participants had knowledge about HPV and cervical cancer. They had hesitations about HPV vaccine and vaccination. A little more emphasis on HPV vaccination in education will benefit both the individuals themselves and the society they will provide health services in the future.