Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Status and Its Predictors Among Medical Students
Öz
Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination status of medical students and the factors influencing it.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among students enrolled in the Faculty of Medicine at Suleyman Demirel University during the 2024–2025 academic year. A total of 1,179 completed responses were obtained. In addition to assessing participants’ HPV vaccination status, the study included the HPV Knowledge Scale (HPV-KS), the Health Belief Model Scale for HPV and Vaccination (HPV-HBMS), and various sociodemographic variables.
Results: The HPV vaccination rate among the participants was 5.9%. Backward logistic regression analysis identified several significant independent predictors of HPV vaccination. Being female increased the likelihood of vaccination by 5.56 times compared to males. Regular medication use was associated with 2.04 times higher odds. Having a mother employed as a healthcare worker increased the odds by 2.25 times. A positive perception of family economic status was associated with a 1.90 times higher likelihood compared to an average or poor perception. A family history of cervical cancer increased the odds by 4.58 times. Having a boyfriend or girlfriend was associated with 1.92 times higher odds. Additionally, each one- point increase in knowledge about the current HPV vaccination program increased the likelihood of vaccination by 1.43 times.
Conclusions: Although medical students have easy access to health-related information, the low HPV vaccination rate suggests that factors beyond knowledge—such as attitudes and beliefs—also play a critical role. Therefore, comprehensive educational programs that address not only knowledge but also health beliefs and attitudes should be implemented in medical schools.
Anahtar Kelimeler
Kaynakça
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