Summary: | Introduction
Human papilloma virus (HPV) is a renowned cause of cervical cancer,
which has resulted in high mortality of individuals. Cervical cancer could be reduced
by screening and HPV vaccination. This study investigated knowledge, attitudes and
perceptions of parents towards HPV vaccines in Ibadan, South-West L.G.A, Oyo State,
Nigeria.
Methods
A cross-sectional descriptive design was used with a multi-stage sampling
technique to select 186 parents from Ibadan South-West local government area of Oyo
state. A validated structured questionnaire (r=0.78) was used for data collection.
Results
The mean age of the respondents was 30.2 years. The parents had good
knowledge of the HPV vaccine (mean=3.12) and most had a high level of knowledge
(98.9%). Parents demonstrated negative attitude (mean=2.97) and positive perception to
HPV vaccines. Major factors affecting their attitude towards the uptake of HPV vaccines
were: finance (86%), level of education (81%), distance to health facilities (83%),
inadequate knowledge about the vaccine (89%), fear of promiscuity (82%), and concern
about adverse effect (80%).
Conclusions
Factors responsible for a negative attitude were the high cost, distance
from vaccination site, inadequate knowledge, fear of subsequent adolescent promiscuity
and concern about adverse effects. In light of the benefits of HPV vaccination, the Nigerian
government should make HPV vaccines available, affordable, and accessible to the public.
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