Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Regarding Cervical Cancer and HPV Vaccination among Adolescent Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study (Code-T0209)

Introduction: Cervical cancer remains a major public health concern worldwide, with Human Papillomavirus (HPV) being the primary causative factor. Despite the availability of an effective vaccine, awareness and uptake remain suboptimal, particularly among young adults. Medical students, as future healthcare providers, play a crucial role in promoting HPV vaccination and cervical cancer prevention. This study assesses the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) related to cervical cancer and HPV vaccination among adolescent medical students.

Aims and Objectives:

Aim is to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding cervical cancer and HPV vaccine among adolescent medical students , with the goal of identifying gaps in understanding and promoting effective educational interventions.

Objectives:

1) Assess the knowledge about cervical cancer , risk factors , symptoms, and prevention including HPV vaccine among mbbs – 1 and 2 year students .

2) Analyze the attitudes of medical students towards seriousness of cervical cancer and importance of HPV vaccination and their beliefs about effectiveness of preventive measures.

3) To see about the practices of mbbs students regarding their participation in cervical cancer awareness initiatives , recommendtions for HPV vaccine and discussions about screening with patients .

4) To compare cohorts and also identify the educational needs so as to develop targeted programs to increase the awareness and promote advocacy by equipping them with necessary knowledge and skill to effectively educate patients and communities.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adolescent medical students in a tertiary medical institution. Participants completed a structured questionnaire assessing their knowledge about cervical cancer, awareness of HPV vaccination, attitudes toward vaccination, and personal vaccination status. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and associations between knowledge and vaccination uptake were examined.

Results: While most students had adequate theoretical knowledge about cervical cancer and HPV, misconceptions about vaccine safety and necessity were prevalent. Despite positive attitudes toward vaccination, the actual uptake remained low. Key barriers identified included concerns about side effects, lack of awareness programs, and cost-related factors.

Conclusion: Although adolescent medical students exhibit good knowledge and favorable attitudes toward HPV vaccination, actual vaccination rates remain suboptimal. Targeted educational interventions and awareness campaigns are necessary to improve vaccine uptake and advocacy among future healthcare professionals.

Keywords: Cervical cancer, HPV vaccination, Knowledge, Attitude, Practices, Medical students