Knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding human papilloma virus vaccination among physicians in Qatar

Abstract

To achieve the 2030 goal, targeted education are required to address the gaps in the knowledge and attitudes of health care providers and tailored advocacy activities with suitable approaches to empower them in addressing the perceived barriers and misunderstanding and to encourage them in proactive enrollment through effective communication. Nearly half the physicians had sufficient knowledge regarding human papilloma virus infection and human papilloma virus vaccine; however, quite a high number did not know that the vaccines were available in Qatar. Physicians were not commonly discussing sexual health with their clients; however, a reasonable proportion recommended the human papilloma virus vaccine. The proportion of physicians willing to vaccinate their adolescent daughter with the human papilloma virus was not high. Many reasons were stated, of which not being sexually active was the most common. Physician-perceived barriers to community acceptance of human papilloma virus vaccines included gap in knowledge of the relationship between the human papilloma virus and cancer, concerns regarding vaccine efficacy and safety, and cost and fear of risky sexual behavior that could be encouraged by vaccination. These gaps and challenges mandate the setting of appropriate strategies and organizing interventions and services for the enhancement of a comprehensive cervical cancer control program in Qatar.