Evaluation of students' knowledge and health attitude about HPV and human papilloma virus vaccination, a case study in Kermanshah province

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a dangerous viral disease with the potential for malignant genital cancers. Vaccination rates against HPV are very low in Iran and there are no plans for HPV vaccination. This study was conducted to evaluate knowledge and attitudes about HPV, health beliefs about HPV vaccination benefits, barriers, and intention to recommend HPV vaccination for girls and boys.

The study was conducted using a descriptive cross-sectional questionnaire in four sections: demographic measurement, knowledge, attitude and information resources for 500 female and male students in higher education centers of the province in 1400. The validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by the faculty members of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences and its reliability was confirmed by Cronbach's alpha test. Data analysis was done using logistic regression method and 95% confidence interval using SPSS software version 18. Ethical considerations were observed in all phases of the study.

There was a significant difference in knowledge and attitude of participants based on gender in women with 36.4%, postgraduate degrees in women with 16.84%, and disciplines related to medical sciences with 30.25% (P < 0.05).

Although no program has yet been presented for HPV vaccination in the province's universities, it is necessary to promote public knowledge about HPV vaccination and to explain HPV vaccination goals among young men and women by health professors.