Knowledge regarding cervical cancer, human papillomavirus and future acceptance of vaccination among girls in their late teens in Korea

Han, You Jung; Lee, Sa Ra; Kang, Eun Ji; Kim, Mi Kyoung; Kim, Nam Hee; Kim, Hyun Jin; Ju, Woong; Kim, Seung Cheol

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study is as follows; First, to assess knowledge regarding cervical cancer, HPV and the acceptance of HPV vaccination among girls in their late teens in Seoul, Korea. Second, to find out factors affecting the acceptance of HPV vaccination. METHOD: From November to December 2006, we surveyed Ewha Womans University freshmen and third year female students of Keumran High school affiliated with Ewha Womans University. A written questionnaire was sent to 310 students and 275 students responded. The questionnaire was divided into three sections that sought information about the followings : (1) Demographic characteristics; (2) Knowledge regarding cervical Pap smear testing and cervical cancer; (3) Knowledge regarding HPV and HPV vaccines. We scored the questionnaire giving one point for each correct answer. We summed up scores of knowledge on each section and compared the scores according to the acceptance of HPV vaccination in target group.
RESULTS
The mean score of knowledge regarding cervical Pap smear testing and cervical cancer, HPV and HPV vaccines were 5.31+/-1.48 and 3.11+/-2.09, respectively. None of the demographic characteristics influenced the acceptance of HPV vaccine. The level of knowledge regarding HPV and HPV vaccines significantly affected the acceptance of HPV vaccine, however, knowledge regarding cervical Pap smear testing and cervical cancer did not.
CONCLUSION
This study emphasize the need for further education regarding HPV infection and HPV vaccination for improvement in HPV vaccine acceptance.