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ISSN 2063-5346
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KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE (KAP) ON CERVICAL CANCER, HPV, SCREENING, AND HPV VACCINATION AMONG WOMAN

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Abdalla Omer Abdalla Omer1, Mohammed Amer Andelgader2, Hamid Ali Karar3, Aladin khalaf alla elhaj eltahir4 A. Sudheer5, Kanala Somasekhar Reddy6, Chenchu Suresh7*
» doi: 10.48047/ecb/2023.12.si10.00164

Abstract

HPV is a global health concern, particularly for cervical cancer. In India, HPV is a leading cause of cervical cancer among females. Vaccines effectively prevent high-risk HPV strains, but vaccination rates among adolescent girls are low due to limited awareness, safety concerns, and cultural barriers. This study examines women's knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) on HPV, cervical cancer, screening, and vaccination in India. This study aims to contribute to the development of targeted educational and awareness campaigns to enhance public health outcomes. Aims and Objectives: The present study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of topics like HPV infection, cervical cancer, and HPV vaccination among young women and enhance their awareness on the topic. Methodology: A 6-month cross-sectional study was conducted from March to November (2022) in Anantapur, India. Questionnaires were distributed among the general public, who were instructed to complete them diligently. Results: Among the 200 participants, a high percentage of respondents were aware of cervical cancer (91.5%) and its association with HPV infection (88%). A majority (90%) considered cervical cancer a significant illness for females in the reproductive age group. The study also revealed that most respondents (89%) understood that HPV infection can be transmitted through sexual contact. However, a large proportion (87%) had never undergone cervical cancer screening. Nonetheless, the majority (83.5%) expressed willingness to undergo screening if it was free and safe. Among the 200 participants, 76% were open to receiving the HPV vaccine, and 86% were willing to recommend the vaccine to friends and relatives. Conclusion: The study reveals a significant lack of awareness about HPV infection and vaccination, emphasising the urgent need to bridge this knowledge gap and raise awareness to decrease the incidence of cervical cancer among women. It suggests that government organisations should formulate policies, conduct adequate public awareness campaigns, and offer appropriate medical interventions to effectively prevent HPV infections, including genital warts and cervical cancer.

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