Research Papers
Knowledge on Cervical Cancer Prevention and HPV Vaccination Among Female Students in Tertiary Education Centers in Batticaloa, Sri Lanka
Authors:
- F. M. A. Azeez
- M. J. Naajeda
- M. F. F. Luthah
- A. S. F. Jiyatha
- M. Sivanjali
- K. E. KarunakaranEmail K. E. Karunakaran
Abstract
Background: Carcinoma of cervix is common yet preventable. Sri Lankan young population is at risk. This study was conducted among the students attached to three non-conventional higher education institutions with reference to assessing the awareness, screening methods, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) as causative factor and attitude towards HPV vaccination.
Methods: A validated questionnaire was used. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25 software.
Results: 120 females participated, age ranging 19 to 25 years. Seventy (57.5%) participants were aware of the cervical cancer. Seventy percent of them were also aware HPV as causative factor. About half of the participants (50.8%) were not aware of availability of cervical screening. Among those aware of the screening, about half reported the availability of both Pap smear and HPV testing. Totally about 87% were aware of the Pap smear. Sixty nine students [57.5%] were ‘not sure’ of the availability of HPV vaccine and 58 of them stated ‘unsure of vaccine received’. About 16% did not want to receive the vaccine. One third mentioned that the HPV Vaccine is available in Sri Lanka.
Conclusions: The awareness noted under 60% of the participants indicates the need for structured awareness programs to young population. Majority of participants were confused about the availability and whether they had received of HPV vaccine.
- Year: 2020
- Volume: 25 Issue: 1
- Page/Article: 41-45
- DOI: 10.4038/jrcs.v25i1.95
- Published on 19 Dec 2020
- Peer Reviewed