Knowledge of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and human papillomavirus vaccine among undergraduate students at a Nigerian university

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV) affects both genders, causing oropharyngeal, genital, and other HPV-related cancers. A good knowledge of HPV infection and vaccines will allow individuals who are at risk to make informed decisions on effective measures to prevent HPV-related cancers. This study assessed the knowledge of HPV infection and vaccine among undergraduate males and females at the University of Ilorin, Nigeria. This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted at the University of Ilorin, Nigeria, from July 2023 to September 2023. Of a representative sample size of 450 undergraduates selected using a multistage sampling technique, 411 were deemed fit for analysis after ensuring completeness. Data were entered and analysed using SPSS version 26.0. Human papillomavirus infection and vaccine knowledge was generally poor, with 5.6% and 6.6% of the participants having good knowledge of the infection and vaccine, respectively. Older age and level of study were significantly associated with good knowledge of HPV infection and vaccine, respectively (P-value < 0.005). Knowledge of HPV infection and vaccine was generally poor. In collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the University should design strategies to enlighten the university community on HPV infection/vaccine. The University should integrate HPV education programs and awareness into orientation programs and provide subsidized vaccinations on campus for eligible students as part of University health initiatives.