Assessment of Knowledge, Awareness, and Attitude Regarding Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Among Young Tribal Women in India

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among women in India, with human papillomavirus (HPV) identified as the principal causative agent. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, uptake remains low, particularly in rural and tribal populations. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, awareness, and attitude regarding HPV vaccination among young tribal women in Andhra Pradesh, India. METHODS: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 350 tribal women aged 18-25 years in Ragolu, Srikakulam, during October-November 2023. Participants were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected via a prevalidated questionnaire in the local language and English, assessing sociodemographic details, knowledge of cervical cancer and HPV, awareness of the HPV vaccine, and attitudes regarding vaccination. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. RESULTS: Only 26% of participants were aware of cervical cancer, and 20.5% had heard of HPV. Among those aware of HPV, fewer than half knew it was sexually transmitted or that vaccines are available for prevention. Awareness of the recommended age and dosing regimen for the HPV vaccine was notably low. Attitudes toward vaccination were generally positive: 69.4% believed HPV vaccination is necessary, and 70.3% were willing to receive the vaccine. However, cost was a barrier, with 52% unwilling to pay 5000-10,000 rupees for vaccination. A majority (90%) expressed a desire for more information about the vaccine, and 87.1% would recommend it to others. Most participants (58.9%) favored including HPV vaccination in the regular immunization schedule. CONCLUSION: There is a significant gap in knowledge and awareness of HPV, cervical cancer, and HPV vaccination among young tribal women. Despite this, attitudes toward vaccination are favorable, suggesting that targeted educational campaigns and integration of the HPV vaccine into national immunization programs could substantially improve vaccine uptake and reduce the burden of cervical cancer in underserved populations.