HPV and Vaccination Knowledge in Young Women in Italy
Author Information
Author(s): Di Giuseppe G, Abbate R, Liguori G, Albano L, Angelillo I F
Primary Institution: Department of Public, Clinical and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
Hypothesis
What are the knowledge, attitudes, and behavioral intentions regarding HPV infection and vaccination among adolescents and young women in Italy?
Conclusion
The study found that knowledge about HPV infection and cervical cancer among young women in Italy is low, but there is a high intent to receive the HPV vaccine.
Supporting Evidence
- Only 23.3% of participants had heard that HPV is an infection of the genital mucosa.
- 81.7% expressed intent to receive the HPV vaccine in the future.
- Older age and having a parent who is a health care professional were associated with higher knowledge about HPV.
Takeaway
Most young women in Italy don't know much about HPV or the vaccine, but many want to get vaccinated.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study using a self-administered anonymous questionnaire distributed to a random sample of adolescents and young women.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported data and the possibility of social desirability affecting responses.
Limitations
The study design is cross-sectional, which limits causal inference, and relies on self-reported data, which may be inaccurate.
Participant Demographics
Participants were adolescents and young women aged 14-24 years, primarily single and full-time students.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.08–1.2
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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