Knowledge, attitude, and behavior of human papillomavirus vaccination among undergraduate students in Shanghai, China

Abstract Objective This study aimed to explore undergraduates’ knowledge, attitude, and practice/behavior of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, as well as the essential influencing factors for vaccination decision-making. Methods Through cluster and convenience sampling, 2000 undergraduates from the Nursing and Language department of a university in Shanghai were sent a self-designed questionnaire. Chi-square tests, independent sample t -test/ANOVE, and multiple linear regression were used to investigate participants’ knowledge and attitude on HPV vaccination, as well as the factors that predicted potential action to receive and promote HPV vaccination in the future. Results The mean HPV knowledge score was 5.027 out of 10. Health science students showed a significantly higher knowledge mean score than the non-health science students ( P < 0.000). There was a statistically difference in HPV vaccination attitude among undergraduates in different grades ( P < 0.05). Awareness of cervical cancer and worries about the risk of cervical cancer were the significant predictors of willingness to receive and promote HPV vaccination in the future. Conclusions It would take time for a new health product to be aware, understood, accepted, and received. Education providing and information sharing are expected to break the dawn and make the procedure processed.