The Knowledge Levels and Opinions of Biomedical Students Regarding the Human Papillomavirus Quadrivalent (Types 6, 11, 16, and 18) Recombinant Vaccine

Abstract

The objective of this research was to assess the knowledge levels and attitudes of all students enrolled in 1 biomedical university regarding the human papillomavirus quadrivalent (types 6, 11, 16, and 18) recombinant vaccine (Gardasil-Merck; the HPV vaccine). A survey of students from all 7 programs at the University was conducted in January 2009. A total of 1120 useable questionnaires were obtained. These programs included pharmacy, osteopathic medicine, physician assistant, physical therapy, occupational therapy, doctor of psychology, and master of biomedical sciences. Mean percentage correct on the HPV vaccine knowledge test was 73. Subjects scored highest on the question that asks whether the vaccine helps prevent cervical cancer (97% correct) and lowest on the one asking whether it helps prevent genital warts (41% correct). Eighty-eight percent thought that patients 18 years and older should be able to receive the HPV vaccine without parental consent. Only about 5% think that the vaccine would cause patients to become sexually active, or that it would cause patients to have unprotected sex. The results suggest that these students have reasonable but limited knowledge of the vaccine. Their positive attitudes suggest that they will likely recommend or provide the vaccine to their patients.

University Students’ Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding Cervical Cancer, Human Papillomavirus, and Human Papillomavirus Vaccines in Turkey

“…The questionnaire was based on the literature review. 13,[33][34][35][36][37][38][39][40][41][42] Content and face validity of the instrument were determined via a panel of 7 experts. Panel members included 2 gynecologist, 1 oncologist, 1 infectious diseases expert, and 3 nurse educators.…”

Leveraging teachable moments in cancer prevention by improving HPV vaccination in health professional students (HPS): A systematic review

“…However, Walker et al found that only 5.1% (8/158) of dental, dental hygiene, and nursing students knew that HPV vaccines may be effective in protecting against HPV and related oropharyngeal cancer (40). The majority of students in each study knew that the HPV vaccine is safe, though there was a wide range between 75% (751/1002) and 99% (198/200) of HPS with this knowledge (34,39). These results demonstrate that a variety of effective educational strategies for improving knowledge about HPV and HPV vaccination.…”

“…The majority of students in each study knew that the HPV vaccine is safe, though there was a wide range between 75% (751/1002) and 99% (198/200) of HPS with this knowledge ( 34 , 39 ).…”

“…While students consistently displayed awareness that HPV causes cervical cancer (99%), many lacked knowledge of the ability of HPV to cause other cancers including head and neck cancer (40-47%) and oropharyngeal cancer (45%) ( 33 , 40 ). Most students did know that HPV vaccination is safe (75-99%) ( 34 , 39 ). Other knowledge gaps about HPV vaccination included dosing schedules, age ranges, boys needing vaccination, and whether to initiate the vaccine series prior to sexual activity.…”