Knowledge Levels and Health Beliefs of Midwifery Students Regarding the HPV Vaccine: Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge levels and health beliefs of midwifery students regarding the human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine. Material and Methods: The study was conducted using an analytical cross-sectional design and included 260 actively enrolled students from the Midwifery Department of Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam University Faculty. Data were collected using a questionnaire form, the HPV Knowledge Scale, the health belief model scale for HPV and its vaccination. Results: Among the participants, 29.6% were 2nd-year students, and 98.1% were single. HPV knowledge was higher among students in advanced academic years, those who were married, and those with health insurance, while smoking was associated with lower knowledge (p<0.05). Higher perceived benefits, susceptibility, and severity correlated with greater knowledge, whereas perceived barriers had a negative association (p<0.05). Student with higher HPV knowledge scores reported fewer received barriers, especially in the 4th year and among those intending to get vaccinated. Higher income levels were linked to greater perceived benefits and susceptibility (p<0.05). Conclusion: The findings suggest that academic progression and socioeconomic factors play a critical role in shaping HPV-related awareness and beliefs. Therefore, educational interventions targeting midwifery students, particularly those in the early years of their training, should be designed to reduce misinformation, overcome barriers to vaccination, and reinforce positive perceptions that support the uptake of the HPV vaccine.