Original Article

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Year: 2024 I Volume: 6 I Issue: 4I Pages I 1-10

 

​https://doi.org/10.46982/gjmt.2024.107

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Healthcare Workers Knowledge, Perception, Awareness, and Barriers about Human Papilloma Virus Vaccine: A Cross-Sectional Study in Saudi Arabia.

Alnojaidi Najd 1, Alammari Raghad 1, Hafidh M. 1, Khafajeh Raed. A 1, Al Yousef Sawsan 1

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1 King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

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* Corresponding Author:

Raghad Khalid Alammari, MD

Email address: Rkalammari@kfmc.med.sa 

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Source of funding:  None to declare

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Conflict of interest: None

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Submission date: 02 December 2024

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Acceptance date:  30 December 2024

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Key words: HPV Vaccine, Healthcare Workers, Knowledge and Awareness, Barriers to Vaccination, Saudi Arabia, Public Health 

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Abstract:

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Background: Human papilloma virus (HPV) is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection associated with various cancers, including cervical, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers, as well as genital warts. Despite the availability of effective HPV vaccines, uptake remains low in many countries, including Saudi Arabia, especially among men. Healthcare workers (HCW) have a crucial role in influencing public vaccination rates and preventing HPV-related diseases. This study aims to assess the knowledge, perception, awareness, and barriers related to the HPV vaccine among HCW in KFMC, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2023 to April 2024, involving physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, and dentists. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire evaluating demographic information, knowledge of HPV and its vaccine, awareness, perceptions, and barriers to vaccine uptake. The questionnaire was distributed electronically, ensuring participant anonymity and voluntary participation. Results: 810 participants were involved. Most participants recognized the link of HPV to cervical and anal cancers, 52.47% (p < 0.001) and incorrectly believed HPV could not infect both genders. About 55.56% (p < 0.001) were unaware that HPV infections can be asymptomatic. Only 11.98% (p < 0.001) were vaccinated, though 63.70% (p = 0.001) were willing, and 83.04% (p < 0.001) supported its inclusion in immunization programs. Vaccine hesitancy was influenced by perceived low risk (17.97%, p < 0.005), lack of awareness (11.37%, p < 0.001), concerns about side effects (10.04%, p = 0.021), and cultural or religious beliefs (9.96%, p = 0.001). Targeted education and culturally sensitive outreach are essential to dispel misconceptions, address hesitancy, and improve vaccine uptake. Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for targeted educational interventions to address knowledge gaps and misconceptions among HCW to enhance their understanding about HPV-related risks, and promote HPV vaccination.