HPV and HPV vaccine knowledge among HPV-vaccinated women in North-eastern Romania

Purpose of the study: Romania is one of the few countries where not only female children but also young women are vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV) (“catch-up” vaccination). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes towards HPV, HPV vaccination, and cervical cancer among young women who were part of the HPV catch up vaccination program. Materials and Methods: The authors recruited women over 16 years of age to be immunized with the HPV vaccine. They were offered a free catchup vaccination by the Romanian government in 2010-2011. Participants were interviewed using a standard questionnaire. Through this survey, the participants offered their knowledge and opinions regarding HPV, the connection between HPV and cervical cancer, and the HPV vaccination. Results: Among the participants (n = 120), knowledge of HPV, HPV vaccine, and cervical screening was good. Most respondents were aware of the causal relationship between HPV and cervical cancer (83.3%), the sexual transmission of HPV (81.6%), and its asymptomatic nature (68.3 %). The women with a high knowledge score were more likely to have attained a high educational level, to work in the healthcare system, and to consult more health information sources. A major role in deciding to get the vaccination was the physician (gynaecologist or general practitioner) who proposed the vaccination and explained the importance of being immunized with the HPV vaccine. Conclusion: Knowledge regarding HPV and its relation to cervical cancer is high among women protected by the HPV vaccine. They have a positive opinion about HPV vaccines, and they recommend vaccination to other relatives or friends.

HPV; HPV vaccination; HPV knowledge; HPV catch-up vaccination.

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