Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Awareness and Vaccine Hesitancy Among Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study on Knowledge, Stigma, and Preventive Behavior

Aim: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a leading cause of several anogenital and oropharyngeal cancers, yet vaccination rates remain suboptimal globally.In addition to limited access and cost-related barriers, stigma surrounding HPV can hinder vaccine uptake and preventive health behavior.This study aimed to evaluate HPV-related knowledge, attitudes, and perceived stigma among medical students, and to identify key factors influencing vaccine acceptance. Materials and Methods:A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 220 medical students.Participants completed a structured questionnaire including socio-demographic items, HPV Knowledge Scale, and questionnaires assessing vaccination attitudes and HPV-related stigma.Statistical analyses included chi-square, t-tests, analysis of variance, and correlation analysis. Results:The mean age of participants was 22.61.3years; 63.6% were female.Although overall HPV awareness was high, only 19.1% had received at least one dose of the vaccine.Cost was the most cited barrier (40.9%), and 65% indicated willingness, to be vaccinated, if the vaccine were free.Students with prior sexual experience were more likely to be vaccinated (P = 0.043).Knowledge scores increased with academic year (P < 0.05).A negative correlation was observed between knowledge and stigma scores (r = -0.238,P < 0.001).Nearly half reported they would feel shame or guilt if diagnosed, and 76% expressed concerns about the infection's impact on relationships.No significant gender differences were found in stigma. Conclusion:Despite high awareness, persistent stigma remains among future healthcare providers, suggesting that medical education alone may be insufficient.Integrating value-sensitive, culturally informed content into medical training-alongside policy interventions to address vaccine affordability may be essential in reducing stigma and improving vaccination.