Parental perception and intention to vaccinate female children 9–14 years with the human papillomavirus vaccine in Ile-Ife, Nigeria: theory of planned behaviour approach

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is a highly effective strategy for preventing cervical cancer; however, achieving high vaccination coverage among eligible girls depends largely on parental decision-making. This study assessed parental perceptions and intention to vaccinate female children aged 9–14 years against HPV in Ile-Ife, Nigeria, using the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). A cross-sectional study was conducted between August and September 2024 among 163 parents of female children aged 9–14 years attending selected secondary schools in Ile-Ife, Nigeria, using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a pretested questionnaire developed from previously validated instruments and analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 27. Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression were performed to identify factors associated with parental intention to vaccinate at a significance level of p < 0.05. Of the 163 questionnaires distributed, 160 (98.2%) were completed and analysed (response rate: 98.2%). Overall, 59.4% of parents had a positive perception of HPV vaccination, while 60.6% expressed an intention to vaccinate their female children. Higher education level (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 6.06; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.11–17.38) and perceived behavioural control (AOR = 11.97; 95% CI 4.69–30.56) were associated with parental intention to vaccinate. In conclusion, both positive perception of HPV vaccination and parental intention to vaccinate female children were suboptimal. Perceived behavioural control and parental educational level were significant predictors of parental intention to vaccinate. Interventions aimed at strengthening parental intention should therefore give attention to these factors.