Knowledge of human papillomavirus infection and its prevention among adolescents and parents in the greater Milan area, Northern Italy

Parental willingness to accept and pay human papillomavirus vaccine for boys aged 9-14 in a metropolis area of China: Evidence for developing a vaccination strategy

BACKGROUND

Increasing countries are expanding the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination to men, which has not yet been licensed in China. This study investigated the parental willingness to accept (WTA) and pay (WTP) HPV vaccine for their sons aged 9-14.

METHODS

In Shanghai, a metropolis area of China, parents with boys aged 9-14 were recruited to complete an online questionnaire using a convenience sampling strategy. Parental WTA were determined for parents themselves and for their sons. Parental preference of HPV vaccine was measured using discrete choice experiment in two assumed government subsidy scenarios that referred to HPV vaccination subsidy mechanisms for girls in China. Additionally, parental WTP was estimated using contingent valuation method.

RESULTS

A total of 2493 parents with boys aged 9-14 were included in the study. Majority of mothers (88.99 % and 90.99 %) and fathers (79.57 % and 85.04 %) showed WTA HPV vaccine for themselves and sons, respectively. Parental gender, age, monthly household income, knowledge, and awareness were positively associated with parental WTA for their sons (each P < 0.05). Remarkably, more mothers showed specific preference of HPV vaccine for themselves (53.67 %) and sons (47.78 %), while more fathers showed no preference for themselves (46.76 %) and sons (53.81 %). In the two assumed government subsidy scenarios, parents mostly preferred domestic HPV vaccines for themselves and sons (each P < 0.05). Additionally, mothers had significantly higher WTP for sons (mean value, 2122.75 CNY) than fathers did (1695.40 CNY) (P < 0.001). However, parental WTP was similar between for themselves and for sons, regardless of mothers and fathers (each P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Parents have high WTA and WTP HPV vaccine for boys aged 9-14 in Shanghai, which may provide evidence for preparing HPV vaccination strategy. Acceptance of HPV vaccines and roll-out in boys could be enhanced through the availability of government subsidy mechanism and domestic HPV vaccines.

Epidemiology, risk factors, and prevention strategies of HIV, HPV, and other sexually transmitted infections among cisgender and transgender youth: a narrative review

Adolescents face an increased risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) with alarming data especially concerning HIV. Limited data exists for teenagers regarding the influence of their gender identity (GI) and sexual orientation on the risk of STIs. This narrative review aims to analyse the available data to provide a comprehensive overview of STIs incidence and risk factors among adolescents, taking into account the unique circumstances related to various sexual orientations and GIs. Transgender and gender minority (TGM) youth experience more challenges accessing health services compared to cisgender youth. This is often attributed to non-inclusive health environments, barriers to obtaining medical gender affirmation, and an underestimation of sexual risk perception. Literature analysis has revealed that the majority of adolescents, both cisgender and TGM, have limited awareness regarding the risks associated with their sexual behaviors, the most common sexually transmitted diseases, and strategies for prevention, such as PrEP and HPV vaccination. Moreover, a significant portion of pediatricians possess limited knowledge and comfort in addressing various aspects of sexual health, particularly when it involves discussing topics such as sexual orientation, gender identity, and sexual behaviors with sexually active adolescents. This underscores the pressing need for enhanced education for pediatricians, specifically focusing on STIs diagnosis, prevention, and screening.

Vaccine Hesitancy among European Parents-Psychological and Social Factors Influencing the Decision to Vaccinate against HPV: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Due to low adherence to HPV vaccination programs, the European region struggles with vaccination rates lower than 30% among the targeted population. The present report investigated various socio-demographic and psychological factors influencing European parents' hesitancy towards vaccinating their children.

METHODS

As of September 2023, four databases were searched. After applying inclusion criteria, all articles comparing psychological and socio-demographic factors in parents who vaccinate or do not vaccinate their children were included.

RESULTS

Twenty-five primary publications met the criteria, totaling 385,460 responders, of which 311,803 want to or have already vaccinated their child, and 73,555 do not wish to do so. Immigrant and employment status, religion, age of parents and the child's gender seemed to influence their decision to vaccinate their child. Previous experience with vaccines, perceived safety and efficacy and the mother's previous abnormal CCS results also impacted their decision. The caregivers' education, gender, civil status, number of children, family history of neoplasia or mother's CCS attendance did not influence their hesitancy to vaccine.

CONCLUSION

Multiple demographic, social, economic and psychological barriers involved in the parents' hesitancy to vaccinate their children against the HPV virus were highlighted. Specific at-risk categories that need to be targeted with information, education and vaccination campaigns were identified.

Does group education affect mothers' knowledge and attitudes towards the HPV vaccine?

In this study the authors' investigated the effect of group education on human papillomavirus (HPV) on level of knowledge and health beliefs for HPV infection and vaccine. The study was semi-experimental with a pre- and post-test education model. In total, 110 mothers of secondary school students, 55 in education group, and 55 in control group participated. The groups were educated on different content and three evaluations (pre-education, post-education, and six months following the education) were made. HPV knowledge and belief scores of the education group increased compared to pre-education and control group scores (p < 0.001). Perceived barriers to vaccination were similar in both groups (p > 0.05). Group education increases awareness about HPV infection and vaccine.

Who Is Scared of a Needle? An Exploration of Italian Children's Knowledge and Perceptions About the HPV Vaccine

Receiving the HPV vaccine at a young age before being exposed to the virus is essential to improve HPV-related cancer prevention. In many countries in the world, like Italy, the HPV vaccine is offered free of charges to boys and girls aged 12-14. Despite this incentive, the HPV vaccine uptake in Italy remains low. Several interventions and campaigns have been implemented to educate parents and providers. However, children of 12-14 years old have been left out by prevention and education efforts. This study explored middle school children's knowledge and perceptions of the HPV virus and vaccine with the purpose to identify gaps and misperceptions and provide recommendations to develop educational interventions. A total of nine focus groups were conducted, and discussions were analyzed along with 171 anonymous questions collected from the children. Findings included a lack of knowledge of HPV prevention guidelines, negative emotions associated with both the HPV vaccine and vaccines in general, misperceptions between prevention and care, and the desire to receive specific information.

Understanding the determinants of vaccine hesitancy and vaccine confidence among adolescents: a systematic review

Vaccine hesitancy (VH) in the age of adolescence is a major public health issue, though it has not been widely examined in the scientific literature. This systematic review aims to address the determinants of VH among adolescents aged 10-19. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched from the inception until 11 December 2020. Articles in English, assessing adolescents' attitudes toward vaccination in terms of hesitancy and/or confidence were considered eligible. Out of 14,704 articles, 20 studies were included in the qualitative analysis. Quality assessment was performed through the Appraisal tool for Cross-Sectional Studies (AXIS). A better knowledge of vaccine-preventable diseases, a higher confidence in vaccines, as well as an active involvement in the decision-making process showed a positive relationship with adolescents' vaccine uptake. These aspects should be considered to plan tailored interventions for the promotion of vaccination among adolescents and to reduce VH. Major limitations of this review are represented by the high heterogeneity of the tools used in the primary studies and the lack of standardization in outcomes definitions. Future research is needed to disentangle the interrelationship among the different determinants of VH in this age group.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Health Savings as an Alternative Solution: HPV Vaccination Behavior in Adolescents

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to measure the effects of reproductive health savings (tabungan kesehatan reproduksi, Takespro) on human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine initiation program and the quality of the decision making to get vaccinated, as measured by knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and self-efficacy toward HPV vaccination.

METHODS

This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 128 students randomly allocated to intervention and control groups. This research was conducted in junior high schools. The intervention group received the health education "Takespro HPV" intervention through videos and booklets for 6 months at school. Participants in the control group received usual care from the school. Data were collected using a questionnaire of knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and self-efficacy about HPV vaccination modified by researchers based on previous research and tested for validity and reliability. Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney test and independent t-test.

RESULTS

A total of 40 participants were actively enrolled in the intervention group, and 88 were passively enrolled in the control group. The health education that was part of the Takespro HPV intervention improved the knowledge (p < 0.05) and self-efficacy (p < 0.05) of the intervention group compared with the control group. The attitude and belief variables showed no significant difference (p > 0.05). Forty students exhibited the health reproduction savings behavior at schools. However, the savings amount was insufficient to get HPV vaccination at the initiation phase.

CONCLUSION

"Takespro" HPV intervention can be considered an alternative to increasing the coverage of HPV vaccination in adolescents in Yogyakarta.
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Evaluation of the acceptability in France of the vaccine against papillomavirus (HPV) among middle and high school students and their parents

BACKGROUND

The pathogenic and oncogenic roles of papillomavirus (HPV) infections have been documented and shown to occur in women as well as in men. While other countries have already extended their vaccination guidelines to include boys, in 2019 the French National Authority for Health validated implementation of HPV vaccination in the 2020 vaccination schedule. There is, however, a climate of distrust in regard to vaccination in France, and there have been few studies to date regarding the acceptability of HPV vaccination in boys in France. The aim of this study was, therefore, to evaluate the acceptability of extending the recommendations for HPV vaccination in men, among middle and high school students and their parents.

METHODS

Our study (HPVac) was a prospective, multicenter, departmental, and descriptive survey applied to a sample of male middle and high school students attending schools in the Loire-Atlantique department and their parents. It took place from January 2017 to January 2018.

RESULTS

We analyzed the information obtained from 127 parent questionnaires and 145 children questionnaires. In terms of acceptability, 36.6% (n = 53) of the children and 37.8% (n = 48) of the parents were in favour of being vaccinated or of having their children vaccinated against HPV (51.7% (n = 75) and 50.4% (n = 64), respectively, were undecided). The perception of a risk stemming from HPV infection was positively associated with acceptability of the HPV vaccine. Being against vaccines in general, being discouraged by their parents, parents thinking that their child is not at risk, and the belief that the vaccine is not mandatory were arguments cited and significantly associated with a willingness to be vaccinated.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed a lack of information among boys and their parents about HPV and its vaccination. It also clearly showed that taking time to discuss the consequences of an infection and the merits of being vaccinated can help parents overcome their reluctance. The children then generally go along with their parent's choice.

Resources for assessing parents' vaccine hesitancy: a systematic review of the literature

The concept of Vaccine Hesitancy has begun to appear in the scientific landscape, referring to the reluctance of a growing proportion of people to accept the vaccination offer. A variety of factors were identified as being associated with vaccine hesitancy but there was no universal algorithm and currently there aren’t any established metrics to assess either the presence or impact of vaccine hesitancy. The aim of this study was to systematically review the published questionnaires evaluating parental vaccine hesitancy, to highlight the differences among these surveys and offer a general overview on this matter. This study offers a deeper perspective on the available questionnaires, helping future researches to identify the most suitable one according to their own aim and study setting.

Understanding of Young Adolescents About HPV Infection: How Health Education Can Improve Vaccination Rate

The purpose of this systematic review was to identify adolescents' awareness on the human papillomavirus (HPV), the HPV vaccine, and the willingness to undergo the vaccination. A systematic review of studies concerning the adolescent's knowledge and education on the admission of the HPV vaccine was carried out, through the Medline/PubMed and the Google Scholar databases, covering information on adolescent attitudes towards HPV vaccination, as well as their perceptions regarding the vaccination and the need for more training, towards the public information about the HPV and the HPV vaccine. This study concludes that adolescents are poorly informed about the HPV and the preventive vaccination issues, underestimating the likelihood of the infection by the virus. The way to improve their knowledge about the HPV and the implications of the HPV infection is to provide information through the framework of compulsory schooling, primary health care, and the development of informative interactive interventions. The awareness for the need of training about the HPV and its implications should be broadened to address the major barrier to vaccination, which is regarded to be the lack of adequate information. The knowledge and the perceptible susceptibility to the HPV infection and HPV-related diseases among adolescents demonstrate the need for a well-designed training program to bridge the gap of information about the HPV virus and to accept the HPV vaccine.

Awareness of HPV and drivers of HPV vaccine uptake among university students: A quantitative, cross-sectional study

HPV vaccination is a milestone in primary prevention. However in Italy, vaccine coverage is still nowhere near the target of 95%. We investigated factors associated with inclination to get vaccinated in university students, as they are likely to have just assumed a central role in their healthcare decision-making. University students aged 18-25 were asked to fill in a questionnaire. The effect of socio-demographic and behavioural characteristics on HPV awareness was assessed with a logistic regression adjusting for age, gender, nationality, degree course, relationship, age at first intercourse, number of sexual partners, smoking, sexual orientation, past diagnosis of STDs and knowledge of people who had received HPV vaccine. A second regression adjusting also for information sources, awareness and knowledge investigated factors associated with inclination to receive vaccine. Nine thousand nine hundred and eighty-eight questionnaires were included (response rate 91.3%); awareness of HPV and vaccine was 83.3% and 69.9% respectively. Awareness (AOR: 3.3; 95% CI: 2.3-4.6) and a good knowledge positively affected acceptability, as well as a previous diagnosis of STDs and knowledge of vaccinated people. Healthcare workers (AOR: 1.6; 95% CI: 1.4-1.9) and family members (AOR: 1.7; 95% CI: 1.4-2.1) were the most influencing information sources, even if knowledge of vaccinated people was by far more persuasive (AOR: 2.7; 95% CI: 2.2-3.3). Only 12% of participants were acquainted with skin to skin HPV transmission, while 75% believed in a full effectiveness of condom; less than 22% associated HPV with cancer (other than cervical cancer). Efforts to increase awareness are likely to be worth considering that: awareness is the main determinant of vaccine acceptance; only 50% of individuals not interested in receiving vaccine were aware of it; males are much less aware (AOR: 0.09; 95% CI: 0.07-0.11). Moreover, this study spotlights some misconceptions around HPV and acknowledges a pivotal role of healthcare workers, family and peer influence.

Fathers' participation in the HPV vaccination decision-making process doesn't increase parents' intention to make daughters get the vaccine

INTRODUCTION

The HPV vaccination rate in Japan has been dismally low. Our previous survey work found that mothers in Japan, who have a strong influence over their daughters, often are receptive to the fathers' participation in the family's decision-making process about getting their daughter HPV vaccinated.

METHODS

We conducted a survey to investigate the nature of the influence of fathers' participation on the mother's decision-making process. From an internet survey panel, we selected a pool of 1,499 eligible mothers who had 12-18 years old daughters. The mothers were randomized into three Groups. To the mothers in Group A, we gave an educational leaflet regarding HPV vaccination and a second leaflet which recommended that they talk with their husbands about the vaccination. To Group B, we gave only the educational leaflet. No leaflets were sent to Group C. A structured survey questionnaire was then distributed through the internet to the mothers.

RESULTS

In Groups A, B, and C, their intention to have their daughter receive the HPV vaccine was 21.6%, 20.7% and 8.2%, respectively. The percent of Group A mothers who thought their husband's opinion was important for when they made the decision was significantly higher (70%) than in Group B (56.6%) or Group C (47.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

The fathers' participation in the mothers' decision-making does not increase the likelihood of HPV vaccination for their daughters. On the other hand, the educational leaflet proved to be effective for this cause.

HPV knowledge and vaccine acceptance among European adolescents and their parents: a systematic literature review

BACKGROUND

Since the introduction of HPV vaccines, several studies have been conducted in different countries to assess HPV knowledge and vaccine acceptance. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic literature review to summarize results and identify factors associated with HPV knowledge and vaccine acceptance in adolescents and their parents and to compile the measurement tools used in the published research studies performed in European countries where HPV is licensed.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was conducted for studies published between January 1st 2006 and December 31st 2017.

RESULTS

Seventy non-interventional studies performed in 16 European countries met the inclusion criteria. Thirty-eight of them reported data on HPV knowledge and 40 reported data on HPV vaccine acceptance. Further, 51.8% of adolescents (range 0% to 98.6%) and 64.4% of parents (range 1.7% to 99.3%) knew about HPV infection. Insufficient information and safety concerns were the main barriers to vaccination acceptance.

CONCLUSION

HPV knowledge and vaccine acceptance are still modest and vary widely between studies across EU countries. Coordinated efforts should be made to provide the relevant population with information for informed decision-making about HPV vaccination.

The vaccinaTion & Hpv Knowledge (THinK) questionnaire: a reliability and validity study on a sample of women living in Sicily (southern-Italy)

Objective

The aim of this study was to introduce the VaccinaTion & Hpv Knowledge (THinK) questionnaire to assess knowledge about human papillomavirus (HPV) and attitude to HPV-vaccination. Its reliability and validity was demonstrated in a sample of women living in Sicily (southern Italy).

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted on a sample of 220 women at the “Paolo Giaccone” University Hospital in Palermo (Sicily), aged 18–61. Data were analyzed through Cronbach’s alpha and exploratory factor analysis, followed by a structural equation model with measurement component. The two-level data structure was explicitly considered.

Results

Three dimensions were found: “knowledge of HPV infection (kHPV), “Attitude to be vaccinated against HPV (aHPV)” and “Knowledge about vaccines (KV)” (97% overall explained variance). Internal consistency was good for the whole questionnaire (0.82) and the first dimension (0.88) and acceptable for the second (0.78) and the third dimension (0.73). 23% of women showed no or little knowledge of HPV and 44.3% of women had no or little knowledge about HPV induced lesions.

Discussion

The use of a validated questionnaire may serve as a useful measure to assess general knowledge about HPV and attitude towards vaccination against HPV in the primary prevention setting.

Low rate of human papillomavirus vaccination among schoolgirls in Lebanon: barriers to vaccination with a focus on mothers' knowledge about available vaccines

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is an established predisposing factor of cervical cancer. In this study, we assessed the awareness about genital warts, cervical cancer, and HPV vaccine among mothers having girls who are at the age of primary HPV vaccination attending a group of schools in Lebanon. We also assessed the rate of HPV vaccination among these girls and the barriers to vaccination in this community.

Subjects and methods

This is a cross-sectional, school-based survey. A 23-item, self-administered, anonymous, pretested, structured questionnaire with closed-ended questions was used to obtain data. The questionnaire was sent to the mothers through their student girls, and they were asked to return it within a week. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21.0. Bivariate analysis was performed using the chi-square test to compare categorical variables, whereas continuous variables were compared using the Student's t-test. Fisher's exact test was used when chi-square test could not be employed.

Results

The response rate in our survey was 39.4%. Among the responders, the rate of awareness about HPV infection was 34%, where 72% of the mothers had heard about cervical cancer, and 34% knew that a vaccine is available to prevent cervical cancer. HPV vaccination uptake rate was 2.5%. This lack of vaccination was primarily attributed to the low rate of mothers' awareness about the vaccine (34%). Factors significantly affecting awareness about the vaccine were the mothers' marital age, nationality, level of education, employment, and family income. Barriers to HPV vaccination, other than awareness, were uncertainty about safety or efficacy of the vaccine, conservative ideas of mothers regarding their girls' future sexual life, and relatively high price of the vaccine.

Conclusion

Vaccine uptake is low among eligible girls attending this group of schools. The barriers to vaccination are multiple; the most important one is the mothers' lack of knowledge about HPV, cervical cancer, and the modes of prevention. Awareness campaigns along with a multimodal strategy that targets the identified barriers would be recommended to achieve higher rates of HPV vaccination.

Impact of a website based educational program for increasing vaccination coverage among adolescents

Data regarding the use of technology to improve adolescent knowledge on vaccines are scarce. The main aim of this study was to evaluate whether different web-based educational programmes for adolescents might increase their vaccination coverage. Overall, 917 unvaccinated adolescents (389 males, 42.4%; mean age ± standard deviation, 14.0 ± 2.2 years) were randomized 1:1:1 into the following groups: no intervention (n = 334), website educational program only (n = 281), or website plus face to face lesson (n = 302) groups. The use of the website plus the lesson significantly increased the overall knowledge of various aspects of vaccine-preventable disease and reduced the fear of vaccines (p < 0.001). A significant increase in vaccination coverage was observed for tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis and conjugated meningococcal ACYW vaccines in the 2 groups using the website (p < 0.001), and better results were observed in the group that had also received the lesson; in this last group, significant results were observed in the increase in vaccination coverage for meningococcal B vaccine (p < 0.001). Overall, the majority of the participants liked the experience of the website, although they considered it important to further discuss vaccines with parents, experts and teachers. This study is the first to evaluate website based education of adolescents while considering all of the vaccines recommended for this age group. Our results demonstrate the possibility of increasing vaccination coverage by using a website based educational program with tailored information. However, to be most effective, this program should be supplemented with face-to-face discussions of vaccines at school and at home. Thus, specific education should also include teachers and parents so that they will be prepared to discuss with adolescents what is true and false in the vaccination field.

Analysis of Knowledge Level in Brazilian Students about Human Papillomavirus Infection and Development of Penile Cancer

Introduction:

Human papillomavirus (HPV), belonging to the Papovavirida family, is the most prevalent sexually transmitted disease (STD) agent worldwide. In Brazil, it is estimated that there are 3-6 million people infected with HPV.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge of young male students about penis cancer related to HPV infection.

Methods:

This exploratory and quantitative study was conducted to analyze answers of 242 male students attending a private college located in Uberaba city, Minas Gerais state, Brazil, during 2015.

Results:

Most of the 242 participants (88.8%) affirmed having started sexual life very early, the majority (79.3%) were currently married and 69.8% had a single sexual partner. Regardless of their knowledge about HPV virus and its relationship with penis cancer, our data showed a general lack of awareness of the participants.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that despite efforts to propagate information about HPV infection and its relation to penis cancer, the level of knowledge of students is low. Because of that, it is important to improve the information spread by media, emphasizing prevention and treatment of HPV infection in men.

Ethnic Variations in Perception of Human Papillomavirus and its Vaccination among Young Women in Nepal

BACKGROUND

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is strongly associated with cervical and other cancers. In women, cervical cancer is the third most common cancer. HPV infection can be largely prevented through vaccination of (adolescent) girls. At the same time, Nepal is a low-income country experiencing a cultural change in attitudes towards sex and sexual behaviour. However, in the adolescent population knowledge about HPV, factors associated with an increased risk of HPV and the existence of the vaccination is often low.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study with female students enrolled in health and non-health science courses in Pokhara, Nepal. The questionnaire included demographic details, knowledge and attitude questions related to HPV, associated risk behaviour and its vaccination. Descriptive statistics, including Chi-Square test, were used to identify statistically significant relationships. Ethical approval was granted by the relevant authority in Nepal.

RESULTS

Hindu religion (75.0 %; 95% CI: 70.9, 78.6) and Newari caste (75.5%; CI: 61.1, 86.7) were more aware about HPV, HPV vaccination. Hindus religion (55.6%; 95% CI: 51.2, 60.0) and Dalit caste (61.6%, 95% CI: 53.3, 69.4) more willing to be vaccinated than other religions and other castes, respectively. Not unsurprisingly, students on health-related courses had a greater awareness of HPV, HPV vaccination and were more willing to be vaccinated than students on other courses. Similar patterns of association arose for knowledge related to those sexually active at an early age; HPV risk and multiple sex partners; and fact that condoms cannot fully prevent the transmission of HPV.

CONCLUSION

Knowledge about the link between HPV and (a) early sexual initiation, (b) having multiple sexual partners, and (c) the limited protection of condoms and other birth control measures was poor in our study compared to similar research conducted in other parts of the world. One key implication is the need for education campaigns in Nepal to educate young women and their parents about HPV, its risk factors and the benefits of vaccination. .

Assessing the Knowledge Level, Attitudes, Risky Behaviors and Preventive Practices on Sexually Transmitted Diseases among University Students as Future Healthcare Providers in the Central Zone of Malaysia: A Cross-Sectional Study

This study was done to assess the knowledge, attitudes, risky behaviors and preventive practices related to sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs) among health and non-health sciences university students as future healthcare providers in Malaysia. A total of 700 health and non-health sciences university students (255 male; 445 female) aged between 17 and 30 years were surveyed by using a self-administered questionnaire. The majority (86.6%) had heard of STDs, and 50.4% knew STDs could present without symptoms. HIV remains the best known STD (83.6%) by the students, while chlamydia (26%) and trichomoniasis (21.0%) were rarely known. Gender, age group, educational level and faculty type were strongly associated with knowledge level (p-values < 0.05). Most of them (88.8%) were aware that STD screening was important while use of condoms was protective (63.8%). The majority of them strongly felt that treatment should be sought immediately if they (85.5%) and their partners (87.4%) have symptoms. Among the sexually-active students, 66.7% and 18% had sexual intercourse with multiple partners and commercial sex workers, while 17.4% and 9.4% took alcohol and drugs before having sex, respectively. By logistic regression analysis, students aged 24-30 years old (an odds ratio (AOR) = 0.57, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.377-0.859) and faculty type (AOR = 5.69, 95% CI = 4.019-8.057) were the significant predictors for the knowledge level. Knowledge on the non-HIV causes of STDs is still lacking, and the risky behavior practiced by the sexually-active students in this study is alarming. There is a need to revisit the existing STD education curriculum in both schools and universities so that appropriate intervention on STDs can be implemented.

Cross sectional study investigating the differences in knowledge and behaviors about HPV between vaccinated and non-vaccinated girls

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the presents study was to compare the level of knowledge about Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) in vaccinated and non-vaccinated girls and to highlight the reasons why non-vaccinated girls refuse vaccination.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2012 to June 2013 in Turin (Piemonte Region, Italy). Questionnaires were administered to girls attending secondary and high schools randomly selected.

RESULTS

A total of 576 were compiled. The principle sources of information were parents and health workers. The main reported reasons for non-adherence to vaccination were the disagreement of the parents among the 11-12 years group (45.3%) and the lack of evidence on efficacy among the 18 years group (26.8%). By comparing the level of knowledge there was a statistically significant difference between groups: vaccinated girls reported higher score than the unvaccinated group in several questions (p ≤ 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings show a lack of information about HPV infection. Parents, school and health care workers have a central role in girl's education and choices about HPV vaccination. The communication campaign for the prevention of cervical cancer must therefore be characterised by messages able to clarify and consolidate messages that may have been partially received or misunderstood.

Effect of a group educational intervention on rural Chinese women's knowledge and attitudes about human papillomavirus (HPV) and HPV vaccines

Background

Statistics regarding HPV prevalence and cervical cancer rates in rural China are high, however, low levels of HPV awareness and HPV-related knowledge pose a great challenge for cervical cancer control.

Methods

The authors conducted an educational intervention study, which was embedded in a cervical cancer screening project in Yangcheng county, Shanxi Province, China from October to December, 2011 and was designed to assess the short-term effectiveness of a hospital-based, brief, HPV-focused session on rural Chinese women’s knowledge and attitudes. Student’s t-test was used when comparing quantitative variables. Chi-squared test or Fisher’s exact tests was used when comparing qualitative variables.

Results

We found that following the intervention, significant increases were detected in awareness regarding HPV (5.9 % vs. 59 %, p < 0.001) and cervical cancer (63.0 % vs. 89.2 %, p < 0.001). Changes were also observed regarding women’s intention to vaccinate themselves (82.0 % vs. 89.0 %, p = 0.001) and their daughters (82.9 % vs. 88.0 %, p = 0.011), although the impact was more modest compared with the impact on change of awareness. Among women who were aware of HPV, 60.3 % knew that cervical cancer is related to HPV, while only 5.0 % knew the relationship between HPV and genital warts after the educational intervention.

Conclusions

Educational campaigns, particularly those targeting women with limited education and poor access to public media or other educational channels are needed to improve knowledge regarding HPV in the general population.

Romanian adolescents' knowledge and attitudes towards human papillomavirus infection and prophylactic vaccination

OBJECTIVES

Since licensure of HPV vaccine in 2006, HPV vaccine coverage among Romanian adolescents remains worryingly low. The objectives of the study were to assess the knowledge and attitudes towards HPV infection and vaccination among Romanian adolescents and to explore the barriers to HPV vaccination with a view to developing strategies for expanding primary HPV infection prevention.

STUDY DESIGN

This study was conducted in Bucharest between April and June 2015. A total of 524 adolescents aged 16-18 years old were recruited from the first two general highschools in Bucharest (according to the admission grade) and completed a self-administered questionnaire including demographics, HPV related and Papanicolau smear test knowledge. Odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals were used to identify the strength of association. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the effect of demographic characteristics on the level of knowledge and HPV vaccination rate. Associations were considered statistically significant at p<0.05.

RESULTS

Of the adolescents interviewed, a very small proportion had heard of HPV infection, HPV vaccine and Papanicolau smear test, that is, 20.22%, 67.92% and 22.9%, respectively. The overall vaccination rate for this group was 2.3%. The most common reason for not receiving the HPV vaccine was the lack of information (80.6%) followed by parents' concerns regarding safety (11%), fear of pain (5.59%) and not being sexually active (2.7%). However, 97.7% of the respondents declared interest in receiving more information about HPV. According to demographic characteristics, age at first sexual intercourse over 16 years old, monthly household income over one thousand euros and self-perceived good relationship with family members were statistically associated on a multivariate logistic regression analysis with a high HPV knowledge score and rate of vaccination.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows a low level of knowledge about HPV infection and prophylactic vaccination among Romanian adolescents which may be one of the most important factors for the alarmingly low HPV vaccination rate. We specifically call for HPV knowledge and awareness programs; the implication of health professionals, Romanian media and family members should be included as a centrepiece in the effort to inform this vulnerable population group.

Parental attitudes towards male human papillomavirus vaccination: a pan-European cross-sectional survey

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted virus that can lead to severe diseases in both women and men. Today, HPV vaccination is offered to females only across Europe. We aimed to examine parental attitudes to HPV vaccination of their sons given brief information about HPV in both genders.

Methods

A literature study on acceptability of male HPV vaccination was carried out to inform the construction of a study questionnaire. Following up on a Danish study from 2012, this questionnaire was applied in 1837 computer assisted interviews with parents of sons in the UK, Germany, France and Italy. In each country, the parents were representative in terms of geographical dispersion, city size and age of sons in the household. The applied questionnaires took the varying vaccination policies and delivery systems into account. The data were analysed pooled and for each country using significant statistical tests (chi-2) with a 95 % confidence interval.

Results

Approximately ¾ of parents in the UK, Germany and Italy were in favour of HPV vaccination of their sons. In France, this applied to 49 % of respondents. Favourable parents wanted to protect their sons from disease and found gender equality important. Parents in doubt about male HPV vaccination needed more information about HPV diseases in men and male HPV vaccination; Rejecting parents were generally sceptical of vaccines and feared vaccination side-effects. Parents in countries with active vaccination policies (UK and Italy) tended to trust the importance of national vaccination programmes. Parents in countries with passive vaccination strategies (Germany and France) had greater need for information from health care professionals (HCP) and public health authorities.

Conclusion

Given brief information about HPV in both genders, parental acceptance of HPV vaccination of sons is as high as acceptance levels for girls. All parents should be informed about HPV to make informed decisions about HPV vaccination for their children. There is a need for joint efforts from public health authorities and HCPs to provide parents with such information.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12889-015-1863-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

An exploratory study of Japanese fathers' knowledge of and attitudes towards HPV and HPV vaccination: does marital status matter?

BACKGROUND

No studies on male attitudes towards HPV and HPV vaccination have been conducted in Japan, and little is known globally whether attitudes of single fathers differ to those living with a female partner. This exploratory study assessed whether Japanese fathers were likely to have their daughter vaccinated against HPV in a publically funded program and whether any differences existed regarding attitudes and knowledge about HPV according to marital status.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Subjects were 27 fathers (16 single; 11 married) who took part in a study on HPV vaccine acceptability aimed at primary caregivers of girls aged 11-14 yrs in three Japanese cities between July and December 2010.

RESULTS

Knowledge about HPV was extremely poor (mean score out of 13 being 2.74 ± 3.22) with only one (3.7%) participant believing he had been infected with HPV and most (81.4%) believing they had no or low future risk. No difference existed regarding knowledge or awareness of HPV according to marital status. Concerning perceived risk for daughters, single fathers were significantly more likely to believe their daughter was at risk for both HPV (87.5% versus 36.4%; p=0.01) and cervical cancer (75.0% versus 27.3%; p=0.02). Acceptability of free HPV vaccination was high at 92% with no difference according to marital status, however single fathers were significantly more likely (p=0.01) to pay when vaccination came at a cost. Concerns specific to single fathers included explaining the sexual nature of HPV and taking a daughter to a gynecologist to be vaccinated.

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge about HPV among Japanese fathers is poor, but HPV vaccine acceptability is high and does not differ by marital status. Providing sexual health education in schools that addresses lack of knowledge about HPV as well as information preferences expressed by single fathers, may not only increase HPV vaccine acceptance, but also actively involve men in cervical cancer prevention strategies. However, further large-scale quantitative studies are needed.

Perception of human papillomavirus infection, cervical cancer and HPV vaccination in North Indian population

BACKGROUND

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) -associated cervical cancer is the second-most common cancer in women worldwide but it is the most frequent gynaecological cancer and cancer associated death in India women. The objective of this study was to assess knowledge about cervical cancer, HPV, HPV vaccine, HPV vaccine acceptance among school and undergraduates students and their parent's perception about acceptance of HPV vaccine in Northern part of India (Delhi and NCR regions).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A qualitative questionnaire based survey among 2500 urban/rural students aged 12-22 years was conducted.

RESULTS

Overall, a low frequency (15%) of HPV and cervical cancer awareness was observed in students and their parents. However, the awareness was much higher in females belonging to urban setup compared to boys with a perception that HPV causes cervical cancer in women only. Additionally, only (13%) participants who were aware of cervical cancer and HPV) were willing to accept HPV vaccination. Apparently, parents of female students were two times more willing to accept HPV vaccination for their ward than male students (p<0.001; OR 95%CI = 2.09 (1.58-2.76).

CONCLUSION

Cervical cancer and HPV awareness among school, undergraduate students and also to their parents was found to be very low in this part of India. The level of awareness and education appears to be insignificant determinants in rural compared to urban setup. Better health education will be needed to maximize public awareness for cervical cancer prevention.

Facilitators and barriers HPV unvaccinated girls after 5 years of program implementation

Understanding perceptions and characteristics of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinated and non-vaccinated girls can inform communication activities and vaccine delivery strategies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate knowledge and factors associated with HPV unvaccinated girls after five years of vaccination program implementation in Sicily, an Italian region with low vaccination coverage (<50.0%). A cross-sectional study was conducted through a questionnaire designed to assess knowledge and vaccination status of girls of 1997, 1998, 1999, and 2000 birth cohorts. The sample consisted of 350 girls who attended three high schools. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine predictors of vaccine refusal. The survey sample of girls shows that the 43.1% were HPV unvaccinated. A significant increased risk of being unvaccinated originated from the belief that the vaccine was too new (AdjOR = 21.08, CI95% = 2.57-172.97) and that it may cause cervical cancer (AdjOR = 4.36, CI95% = 1.26-15.07), along with having friends as a source of information on the vaccine (AdjOR = 3.67, CI95% = 1.63-8.25). A significant inverse association was observed between being unvaccinated and having Pediatrician/General practitioner as a source of information on HPV vaccine (AdjOR = 0.40, CI95% = 0.24-0.68). Many girls lack the fundamental knowledge about the HPV vaccine. The key issue is the promotion and implementation of information programs to raise awareness of girls on the importance of the vaccine.

Factors influencing adolescent girls' decision in initiation for human papillomavirus vaccination: a cross-sectional study in Hong Kong

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer is one of the common cancers among women worldwide. Despite HPV vaccination being one of the effective preventive measures, it is not included in government vaccination programme in Hong Kong. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of and attitude towards cervical cancer prevention among Chinese adolescent girls in Hong Kong, and to identify factors influencing the initiation of HPV vaccination.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study conducted in Hong Kong during the period of October 2010 to November 2010. A self-administered questionnaire was used, with 1,416 girls from 8 secondary schools completing the questionnaire. Knowledge scores were composited and initiation of HPV vaccination was staged based on stage of change. Analyses were conducted to identify the association of initiation of HPV vaccination with participant's personal and family factors as well as their knowledge and attitude towards cervical cancer prevention.

RESULTS

The uptake rate of HPV vaccination was low (7%) with 58% respondents in pre-contemplation and contemplation stage. The survey identified a significant gap in knowledge on cervical cancer prevention. The main channels of information were from media and very few from schools or parents. However, 70% expressed their wishes to have more information on cancer prevention, and 78% stated that they were willing to change their lifestyles if they knew the ways of prevention. Multivariate analysis identified three independent significant factors for initiation of vaccination (action and intention): perceived cancer as terrifying disease, school should provide more information on cancer prevention, and comments from relatives and friends having received the vaccine. The cost of vaccination and socio-economic background were not found to be significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Public education on cervical cancer needs to be well penetrated into the community for more sharing among friends and relatives. School as setting to provide source of information would facilitate uptake rate of HPV vaccine as students have expressed their wishes that school should provide more information on prevention of cancer. School and community education on cancer prevention would help adolescents to have better understanding of the seriousness of cancer.

Barriers to the vaccination of children and adolescents and possible solutions

The benefits of vaccination are clearly demonstrated by the eradication or enormous decline in the incidence of many vaccine-preventable diseases, but the coverage of many highly recommended vaccines is still frequently inadequate and children continue to suffer from diseases that could have been prevented. The main aim of this paper is to discuss the recognized barriers to the vaccination of children and adolescents confronting national health systems, providers and parents, and the ways in which they can be overcome. Most of the problems underlying limited vaccination coverage among children are due to a lack of understanding on the part of healthcare providers and parents, which underlines the need for educational programmes specifically addressed to each of these groups. It is also essential that all of the physicians providing immunization develop approaches that acknowledge parents' concerns and respectfully try to correct any misinformation. Other means of extending vaccine coverage include the implementation of adequate systems for recording vaccine administration and the activation of effective reminder/recall systems, the provision of immunization services in some medical care specialties or by integrating healthcare sites, and the elimination or reduction of all the problems that currently limit access to vaccination services. However, it will take the combined efforts of healthcare systems and providers to pull down all of the barriers.

Higher risk perception of HIV than of chlamydia and HPV among secondary school students in two German cities

Background

Chlamydia and genital human papillomavirus (HPV) are the two most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among teens and young adults in industrialised countries. The majority of adolescents, however, have limited or no knowledge of these infections. Within the context of a cross-sectional survey on awareness and knowledge of sexually transmitted infections, secondary school students attending the 8th grade and above in Bremen and Bremerhaven, two cities in northern Germany, were asked to rate the risk of peers to get infected with HIV, HPV or chlamydia.

Methods

Between October and December 2011, students aged 12–20 years completed an anonymous, self-administered questionnaire at their school. In addition to answering questions on awareness and knowledge of sexually transmitted infections, all students were also asked to rate the risk of peers to get infected with HIV, HPV or chlamydia. Furthermore, those reporting ever having sexual intercourse were asked to rate their own risk of getting infected with each of the three infections.

Results

1,148 students, 55% female, completed the questionnaire. 27% of the students reported having had sexual intercourse. 68% of all students rated the risk of same-aged students to get infected with HIV/AIDS as high/medium. The corresponding proportions for HPV and chlamydia were 19 and 25% respectively. Those reporting ever having sexual intercourse generally perceived their own risk of getting infected with HIV, chlamydia or HPV as lower than that of their peers.

Conclusion

Generally, the risk of getting infected with HIV was perceived as being higher than that of getting infected with HPV or chlamydia, most likely due to the fact that the students were more aware of HIV than of the other two infections. Efforts should be made to improve awareness and knowledge of HPV and chlamydia among school going adolescents, and to make them realize that these are common infections that are preventable.

Teenagers' understandings of and attitudes towards vaccines and vaccine-preventable diseases: a qualitative study

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Explored understandings of diseases and knowledge and experiences of vaccination.

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Teenagers had limited knowledge and little direct experience of the diseases.

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Participants attitudes towards receiving vaccines’ varied.

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The success of mass immunisation programmes is associated with disease perceptions.

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Need to engage with teenagers to address misconceptions about vaccines and diseases.

Background

To examine immunisation information needs of teenagers we explored understandings of vaccination and vaccine-preventable diseases, attitudes towards immunisation and experiences of immunisation. Diseases discussed included nine for which vaccines are currently offered in the UK (human papillomavirus, meningitis, tetanus, diphtheria, polio, whooping cough, measles, mumps and rubella), and two not currently included in the routine UK schedule (hepatitis B and chickenpox).

Methods

Twelve focus groups conducted between November 2010 and March 2011 with 59 teenagers (29 girls and 30 boys) living in various parts of Scotland.

Results

Teenagers exhibited limited knowledge and experience of the diseases, excluding chickenpox. Measles, mumps and rubella were perceived as severe forms of chickenpox-like illness, and rubella was not associated with foetal damage. Boys commonly believed that human papillomavirus only affects girls, and both genders exhibited confusion about its relationship with cancer. Participants considered two key factors when assessing the threat of diseases: their prevalence in the UK, and their potential to cause fatal or long-term harm. Meningitis was seen as a threat, but primarily to babies. Participants explained their limited knowledge as a result of mass immunisation making once-common diseases rare in the UK, and acknowledged immunisation's role in reducing disease prevalence.

Conclusions

While it is welcome that fewer teenagers have experienced vaccine-preventable diseases, this presents public health advocates with the challenge of communicating benefits of immunisation when advantages are less visible. The findings are timely in view of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation's recommendation that a booster of meningitis C vaccine should be offered to teenagers; that teenagers did not perceive meningitis C as a significant threat should be a key concern of promotional information. While teenagers’ experiences of immunisation in school were not always positive, they seemed enthusiastic at the prospect of introducing more vaccines for their age group.

Knowledge of HPV infection and vaccination among vaccinated and unvaccinated teenaged girls

OBJECTIVE

To assess the knowledge of teenaged girls on human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and vaccination 12 months after the start of a vaccine administration and information campaign.

METHODS

Between May 15 and June 15, 2009, an anonymous questionnaire was given to 629 girls attending a secondary school in a northeastern Italian city (286 were vaccinated against HPV, 343 were unvaccinated) to investigate their knowledge on HPV infection, transmission, prevention, vaccination, and post-vaccination behaviors. The responses were evaluated with respect to the vaccination status of the participants.

RESULTS

Vaccinated teenaged girls had no more knowledge than unvaccinated ones about the route of HPV transmission, and the relationship between HPV and AIDS. Vaccinated girls had less knowledge than unvaccinated girls about preventing transmission by condom (P=0.003) and about the correlation between HPV and penile cancer (P=0.034) and warts (P=0.001). Furthermore, compared with unvaccinated girls, more vaccinated girls believed that contraceptive pills might prevent HPV-related disease (P=0.001). Vaccinated girls better understood the importance of performing regular Pap smears after vaccination (P=0.021).

CONCLUSION

Knowledge on HPV infection and vaccination remains suboptimal, especially among vaccinated teenaged girls, despite a broad information campaign. Misconceptions about the utility of secondary prevention may increase risky sexual behaviors.

HPV infection awareness and self-reported HPV vaccination coverage in female adolescent students in two German cities

Low levels of human papillomavirus (HPV) awareness and knowledge have been observed in the few studies conducted among school-going adolescents. Such data are lacking in Germany. To assess awareness of HPV and of vaccination status among girls attending grades 8-13 in Bremen and Bremerhaven, two German cities. Participants completed a questionnaire in school including questions on demographic characteristics, about HPV awareness and on vaccination status. We analysed the relationship between awareness of HPV, of vaccination status and vaccine uptake and several variables including age and migrant background using univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Six hundred and thirty-two girls aged 12-20 years completed the questionnaire. 50 % had no awareness of HPV, 12 % reported being vaccinated against HPV and 57 % did not know whether or not they were vaccinated against HPV. In multivariate analyses, ever had sex was associated with awareness of HPV, and ever been to a gynaecologist with awareness of vaccination status. Our results may be an indication that female adolescents in Germany are not adequately informed and counselled about HPV and associated issues.

Knowledge about HPV, relation between HPV and cervix cancer and acceptance of HPV vaccine in women in eastern region of Turkey

Objective

The aim of this study is to determine the knowledge of the women living in the eastern region of Turkey about human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervix cancer and their approaches to HPV vaccine.

Methods

The questionnaire forms were distributed to 1,052 patients who applied to the Gynecology Department of Elazig Training and Research Hospital. The subjects were recruited from the general gynecology outpatient clinic of the hospital. The patients from sexually transmitted disease and oncology outpatient clinics were not included in the study. The information about 945 women who completely filled in the questionnaire form was included into the study. The questions set forth in the questionnaire form consisting of 20 questions were prepared by taking the studies previously performed as model.

Results

Ninety-five percent of the women were married and 83.5% were housewives (unemployed). Thirteen percent of the women were illiterate, only 12% were graduated from university. Seventy-four percent of the women did not hear about HPV, 78.4% did not know about HPV vaccine, 63% did not know about the fact that some viruses cause cancer, and 83% did not know about the relation between HPV and cervix cancer. According to the multivariate analysis, free-of-charge vaccination, vaccinated relatives or friends, graduation from university and being under the age of 25 predict to accept the vaccine for themselves.

Conclusion

The young population and the women who graduated from university seem to be more well-informed about HPV and more sensitive about being vaccinated. In addition, free vaccination will ensure the expansion of the vaccine.

Teenagers' knowledge about HPV infection and HPV vaccination in the first year of the public vaccination programme

The aim of this study was to assess teens' knowledge of HPV infection and vaccination one year after the initiation of the public vaccination programme and information campaign on the disease and the opportunity of vaccination. Between 15 May and 15 June 2009, a survey was carried out on 1,105 teenagers attending high schools in a town in the northeast of Italy by means of an anonymous and unannounced questionnaire covering the knowledge of HPV infection, transmission, prevention, vaccination and post-vaccination behaviours. Only 75% of teens knew what HPV infection is (92% of girls vs 51% of boys, p < 0.001); only 70% knew that it is a sexually-transmitted infection. Only 69.3% associated condoms with HPV disease prevention (72.6% girls vs 61.5% boys, p = 0.002). About 18.8% of girls and 33.2% of boys believe that HPV can lead to AIDS (p < 0.001). Among teens aware of HPV vaccination, 7.6% of girls and 21.8% of boys believe that it can prevent AIDS (p < 0.001). Only 75.5% of girls and 51.1% of boys (p < 0.001) believe that condom use remains useful for HPV prevention after vaccination. The need for regular pap smears after vaccination is reported by 93.3% of girls. Teens' knowledge about HPV infection and vaccination remains insufficient, despite a broad information campaign. Erroneous information may increase risky sexual behaviours. Without complete information about HPV infection and vaccination and information about other sexually-transmitted diseases, the latter might become difficult to control among teenagers, while some misunderstandings about the usefulness of secondary prevention might linger.

Parental Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviours towards Human Papillomavirus Vaccination for Their Children: A Systematic Review from 2001 to 2011

Objectives. A systematic review of parental surveys about HPV and/or child HPV vaccination to understand parental knowledge, attitudes, and behaviour before and after FDA approval of the quadrivalent HPV vaccine and the bivalent HPV vaccine. Search Strategy. Searches were conducted using electronic databases limited to published studies between 2001 and 2011. Findings. The percentage of parents who heard about HPV rose over time (from 60% in 2005 to 93% in 2009), as did their appreciation for the HPV infection and cervical cancer link (from 70% in 2003 to 91% in 2011). During the FDA approval, there was a stronger vaccine awareness but it has waned. The same pattern is seen with parents whose children received the HPV vaccine (peak at 84% in 2010 and now 36% in 2011) or the intention to vaccinate (peak at 80% in 2008 and now 41% in 2011). Conclusions. Parents had safety concerns and wanted more information their physician from to recommend and to confidently HPV vaccinate their children.

Awareness and knowledge of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among school-going adolescents in Europe: a systematic review of published literature

BACKGROUND

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a major health problem affecting mostly young people, not only in developing, but also in developed countries.We conducted this systematic review to determine awareness and knowledge of school-going male and female adolescents in Europe of STDs and if possible, how they perceive their own risk of contracting an STD. Results of this review can help point out areas where STD risk communication for adolescents needs to be improved.

METHODS

Using various combinations of the terms "STD", "HIV", "HPV", "Chlamydia", "Syphilis", "Gonorrhoea", "herpes", "hepatitis B", "knowledge", "awareness", and "adolescents", we searched for literature published in the PubMed database from 01.01.1990 up to 31.12.2010. Studies were selected if they reported on the awareness and/or knowledge of one or more STD among school-attending adolescents in a European country and were published in English or German. Reference lists of selected publications were screened for further publications of interest. Information from included studies was systematically extracted and evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 15 studies were included in the review. All were cross-sectional surveys conducted among school-attending adolescents aged 13 to 20 years. Generally, awareness and knowledge varied among the adolescents depending on gender.Six STDs were focussed on in the studies included in the review, with awareness and knowledge being assessed in depth mainly for HIV/AIDS and HPV, and to some extent for chlamydia. For syphilis, gonorrhoea and herpes only awareness was assessed. Awareness was generally high for HIV/AIDS (above 90%) and low for HPV (range 5.4%-66%). Despite knowing that use of condoms helps protect against contracting an STD, some adolescents still regard condoms primarily as an interim method of contraception before using the pill.

CONCLUSION

In general, the studies reported low levels of awareness and knowledge of sexually transmitted diseases, with the exception of HIV/AIDS. Although, as shown by some of the findings on condom use, knowledge does not always translate into behaviour change, adolescents' sex education is important for STD prevention, and the school setting plays an important role. Beyond HIV/AIDS, attention should be paid to infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis.

Fathers' intentions to accept human papillomavirus vaccination for sons and daughters: exploratory findings from rural Honduras

OBJECTIVES

Little is known about fathers' attitudes toward human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in low-resource settings. We sought to determine the awareness of HPV vaccination among Honduran fathers, and to assess their intention to accept HPV vaccination for their sons and daughters.

METHODS

We conducted 100 structured interviews of fathers recruited from medical and business settings between May 2007 and June 2008. After assessing baseline knowledge, fathers received a brief explanation of HPV infection, cervical cancer, genital warts, and HPV vaccination. They were then asked whether they would accept HPV vaccination for their sons and daughters.

RESULTS

Prior to receiving information about HPV, 85% of fathers believed that cervical cancer was preventable, over two-thirds could correctly name some form of prevention, 22% of fathers had heard of HPV, and 17% had heard of HPV vaccination. After receiving HPV-related information, 100% of fathers intended to accept HPV vaccination for their sons and 94% intended to accept HPV vaccination for their daughters.

CONCLUSIONS

Few Honduran fathers were aware of HPV or HPV vaccination, but after receiving information, most would accept HPV vaccination for their sons and daughters.

Knowledge of oxygen administration, aerosol medicine, and chest physiotherapy among pediatric healthcare workers in Italy

BACKGROUND

Oxygen administration, aerosol devices and drugs, or the use of chest physiotherapy are common practices in pediatrics; however, little is known about the knowledge of pediatric healthcare workers concerning the right utilization of these tools. The aim of this study was to fill this gap as a preliminary step in the implementation of appropriate educational programs.

METHODS

This cross-sectional survey of a nationally representative sample of Italian pediatricians and nurses was carried out between September 1 and October 8, 2008. A self-administered, anonymous questionnaire concerning the approach to respiratory disease in infants and children was distributed to all of the participants at the Annual Congress of the Italian Society of Pediatrics, together with a stamped envelope addressed to the trained study researchers.

RESULTS

Of the 900 distributed questionnaires, 76.7% were completed and returned by 606 physicians (199 primary care pediatricians, 245 hospital pediatricians, and 162 pediatric residents) and 84 pediatric nurses. The vast majority of the respondents did not know the percentage of hemoglobin saturation indicating hypoxemia that requires oxygen administration. Most of the nurses admitted to overusing mucolytics and inhalatory corticosteroids, did not know the role of ipratropium bromide, were unable to indicate the first-line drug for respiratory distress, and did not know the correct dose of salbutamol. Only a minority of the respondents were able to specify the indications for chest physiotherapy. The nurses gave the fewest correct answers regardless of their age, gender, work setting, or the frequency with which they cared for children with respiratory distress in a year cared.

CONCLUSIONS

The knowledge of primary care pediatricians, hospital pediatricians, and pediatric nurses in Italy concerning the use of pulse oximetry, aerosol devices and drugs, and chest physiotherapy is far from satisfactory and should be improved. Educational programs are therefore required for both nurses and pediatricians.