Assessment of Awareness and Knowledge of Human Papillomavirus Transmission and Prevention Among Tertiary Institution Students in the Plateau Central Senatorial District, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates awareness/knowledge about human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, transmission, prevention, and HPV vaccine among tertiary institution students in Plateau State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted among students from two tertiary institutions in Plateau State, Nigeria. The study participants were selected using a multistage sampling technique. A well-designed questionnaire was used for data collection. Students’ responses were analyzed to assess their awareness and knowledge regarding HPV transmission, prevention, and vaccination. A composite score was obtained for general HPV knowledge. A score of more than 70.0% indicated good knowledge. The distribution of the variables was examined using frequency distribution and descriptive statistics. The chi-square test was performed for bivariate analysis. Logistics regression was performed to examine the odds of having good HPV knowledge among the students. Level of significant was set at 95%. Of 425 students in this study, 302 (71.1%) were female and 123 (28.9%) were male. There was low awareness of HPV among students, with higher awareness among the females 66 (23.1%) than the males 26 (22.2%) (p = .853). Both female 77 (26.1%) and male students 31 (26.72%) had low awareness of HPV vaccination. Among all participants, only 19 (5%) demonstrated good knowledge of HPV. Students who were employed significantly had good knowledge of HPV compared to those who were unemployed. There is low awareness and general knowledge of HPV and its vaccination among tertiary institution students in Plateau State, Nigeria. The students' employment status is associated with their knowledge of HPV.