Knowledge of human papilloma virus and vaccine hesitancy among health sciences students in Türkiye

Vaccine hesitancy among health sciences students has become a growing public health concern, particularly regarding the human papillomavirus (HPV), the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection globally. Aim: This study examines the association between health sciences students' knowledge of HPV and their hesitancy toward vaccination. A cross-sectional design was employed among health sciences faculty students (n = 331) at a university in Türkiye between January and April 2025. Data were collected via an online questionnaire comprising sociodemographic items, the Vaccine Hesitancy Scale, and the Human Papillomavirus Knowledge Scale. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted. Of the participants, 82% were female and 89% were nursing students. Only 7% had received the HPV vaccine, while 47% expressed willingness to be vaccinated. Higher HPV knowledge scores, including general HPV knowledge, HPV test knowledge, HPV vaccine knowledge, and HPV vaccine accessibility, significantly predicted lower vaccine hesitancy (p < 0.001). Students' vaccine hesitancy is associated with their knowledge and awareness of HPV. Integrating targeted educational interventions on HPV and vaccination into nursing and health sciences curricula may help reduce vaccine hesitancy and promote preventive health behaviours among future professionals.