Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Among Adolescent Girls in a Ugandan HIV Clinic: A Cross‐Sectional Survey

ABSTRACT Objective Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination prevents HPV infections and associated diseases, such as cervical cancer. HPV vaccination is particularly important in areas with high HIV prevalence, as women living with HIV have increased risk of developing cancer from HPV infection. Understanding reasons why patients are and are not vaccinated may help increase uptake of the vaccine. Methods A survey was administered to girls 10–18 years old and their caretakers in an HIV clinic in Kampala, Uganda. The survey consisted of questions regarding demographics, HPV awareness, vaccination history, and attitudes towards vaccination. Results Of 297 survey participants, 213 (72%) had heard of the HPV vaccine, and 142 (48%) reported previously receiving the vaccine, most commonly at school or with a healthcare provider. Most unvaccinated girls cited lack of knowledge or lack of access to the vaccine as reasons for not being vaccinated. Nearly all (94%) unvaccinated girls were willing to receive the vaccine. The most common reason for interest in vaccination was to prevent cervical cancer and warts. Caretakers generally had a positive perception of the HPV vaccine, with nearly all female caretakers also expressing willingness to receive the HPV vaccine themselves, should they have the opportunity. Conclusions In a survey of HIV‐positive young women at an Ugandan clinic, interest in HPV vaccination was high, but the majority of patients had not previously received the HPV vaccine. Lack of education about the vaccine and lack of knowledge regarding access to the vaccine are common barriers to vaccination uptake.