Knowledge, attitudes and practices among medical students of Bangladesh regarding cervical cancer and the human papilloma virus vaccine

Abstract

Background: Human papilloma virus (HPV) is the major cause of cervical cancer that is considered as the second most common cancer in women worldwide. The HPV vaccine can prevent HPV infection and most cases of cervical cancers. Medical students should be aware of cervical cancer, HPV and its vaccine. The aim of this study was to assess knowledge of HPV infection and HPV vaccine and to assess attitude toward these vaccines among the medical students of Bangladesh. Methods: It is a cross-sectional study. A total of 117 (44 males and 73 females) M.B.B.S. students participated. Data regarding HPV and its vaccine were collected using questionnaire-based survey. The questionnaire sought student’s responses pertaining to the knowledge of cervical cancer, HPV and its vaccine. The data were analyzed using Microsoft Access and Excel software. Results: Most of the participants revealed good knowledge regarding etiology of cervical cancer and its preventive measures but poor awareness about target group and schedule of the vaccination. Conclusion: Lack of knowledge among medical students can be detrimental to the health of the society. So, there is a need to create awareness among the future health educators against various aspects of HPV, cervical cancers and its prevention.