Knowledge of Cervical Cancer Vaccine Amongst Students of Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Imo State, Nigeria

Introduction: Cervical cancer is a highly preventable disease that disproportionately affects women in developing countries, with an estimated incidence rate of 33 cases per 100,000 women in Nigeria. Over the years, knowledge of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine services has remained poor in developing countries. This study assessed the knowledge of the cervical cancer and HBV vaccine among undergraduate students at the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Imo State, Nigeria. Methodology: This study utilized a cross-sectional study design. The sample consisted of 223 undergraduate respondents. Data were collected using a well-structured questionnaire administered face-to-face. Results were presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: The findings revealed that knowledge of cervical cancer and the HPV vaccine among participants was suboptimal. Only 37.2% of participants had heard of cervical cancer, and just 31.4% were aware of the HPV vaccine. Among those who had heard of it, the majority (46.99%) obtained their information from the internet. Only 23.8% and 22.42% knew that the HPV vaccine can prevent genital warts and cervical cancer, respectively. Conclusion: This study was conducted among female undergraduate students who are at risk for cervical cancer, yet they demonstrated poor knowledge of the disease and the vaccine. This situation is concerning. Governments and non-governmental organizations should collaborate to improve education and awareness about cervical cancer and HPV vaccination among young women.