Human Papilloma Virus Knowledge and Acceptance of its National Immunization Program among Female University Students in Makkah Region

Background:-Infection with Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) has been known as the primary cause of cervical cancer which is sexually transmitted disease. The association of cervical cancer with HPV infection is preventable by HPV vaccination. Despite the serious complications associated with HPV infection, the awareness and acceptance of HPV vaccination remain weak among the young female population. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge gap regarding HPV infection and its vaccination acceptance, and to investigate the barriers to accepting the HPV vaccination among female students in Makkah region. Methods:-This study was conducted using a self-administered cross-sectional closed-ended questionnaire from November 2022 to March 2023. A total 596 female students from various majors enrolled in universities in the Makkah region participated in this study. The collected data included knowledge of HPV infection and cervical cancer, acceptance of HPV vaccination, and demographic information. All data were analyzed using (SPSS) statistical software. Results:-Insufficient knowledge about HPV and its vaccination acceptance rate were observed among the female university students in Makkah region (58% and 61%, respectively). The concerns about the vaccine's side effects and the fear of the injection were the main barriers to vaccination acceptance. Conclusion:-Raising awareness about HPV infection and cervical cancer by effective educational programs is extremely needed to increase the acceptance rate of HPV vaccination among female young population are highly recommended.