Perception and Acceptance of Human Papilloma Virus Vaccine by Mothers in Owerri, Nigeria: A Cross Sectional Study

Introduction: Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among female children 9-14 years is critical to reducing the burden of HPV-related cancers in Nigeria. We assessed caregivers’ perception and acceptance of HPV vaccination for their wards; using a structured, pretested, self-administered questionnaire in a face-to-face interview among caregivers attending a well-child/immunization clinic in Owerri, Nigeria.   Methodology: Participants were recruited by convenience sampling method between August and October 2023.We analysed the cross-sectional data from 267 caregivers of caregivers aged 20–57years in a Nigerian Teaching hospital. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis to investigate the factors associated with HPV vaccination uptake. Among the respondents, 132 (49.4%) of them had heard about HPV, and 52 (19.5%) stated that it could prevent cervical cancer. Bivariate analysis, demonstrated that tertiary education in the mother (OR 2.25, 95%CI 1.27 to 4.02) and father (OR 2.25, 95%CI 1.28 to 3.85) were significantly associated with their knowledge of HPV vaccine and their wards’ probability of taking the HPV vaccine. Participants’ intention to give HPV vaccination to their children was 77.5%. Our findings suggest that interventions tailored to enhance education and support of caregivers would significantly increase HPV vaccination among females in Nigeria. Conclusion: Being well-educated appears to guarantee good knowledge of the HPV vaccine, but not HPV prevention of cervical cancer role. Our respondents’ intention to have the HPV vaccine administered to their children was high. Concerted efforts need to be made by government and health workers to create awareness about HPV infection, HPV vaccine amongst caregivers to enhance HPV vaccine uptake.