Abstract :
Background: Human papilloma virus (HPV) infections are one of the commonly sexually transmitted
infections. Worldwide, HPV has been documented as the causative factor in 99% of the cervical cancers
but still HPV vaccination implementation is still non-pragmatic in India. For the successful implementation
of the vaccination programs, the target population – adolescents’ awareness regarding HPV associated
diseases and benefits of vaccination should be improved.
Aims and Objectives: To assess the knowledge of human papilloma virus and attitude towards HPV vaccination
among adolescent girls and the effect of a short educational intervention on improving the knowledge and
thereby increasing the acceptance of the vaccine.
Methodology: A questionnaire study was conducted among adolescent girls in the age group of 14-18 years
in secondary and higher secondary schools. The participants were given a brief power point presentation
about HPV and vaccination. The post interventional questionnaire was given immediately and one month
later to test the level of retention of the knowledge acquired.
Results: Among 984 participants, only 743 were found to be valid. The mean test scores was not significantly
different among participants from urban or rural group nor was it higher among children of higher
parental education or socio-economic status. Among the study population, only 0.4% had received the
HPV vaccination and only 32 % knew that cervical cancer was preventable. In the post intervention study,
85% were willing to get vaccinated and 91% wanted to recommend it other family members. The mean
test score was statistically significant (p = 0.000) in both the post interventional studies.
Conclusion: Awareness campaigns about HPV, HPV vaccine and cervical cancer should be conducted at all
educational institutions, mainly targeting the adolescent population.
Keyword :
Adolescents, HPV vaccination awareness, School based educational interventions