Barriers and facilitators to HPV vaccination in greek youth population

Abstract

Background: HPV virus is one of the most commonly transmitted infections and is the cause of half a million cases of cancer per year in developed countries, especially in women. The vaccine is recommended for the prevention of cervical cancer and other types of tumor. The purpose of this study was to assess the level of knowledge of young Greeks about the virus, as well as, to identify barriers, but also factors that contribute to a positive attitude towards vaccination. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study and the sample consisted of 825 subjects aged 15-38 years, who completed a self-administered questionnaire. Findings: The data analysis showed that the attitude of women towards vaccination is associated with the general attitude towards vaccines, educational level and the attitude of the mother on the matter, the doctor's attitude, the level of knowledge about the HPV virus and the source of information. Vaccination in women was associated with the educational level, the marital status, mother’s and father’s educational level and family income. Furthermore, important factors influencing the decision to vaccinate are the general attitude towards vaccines, the level of knowledge about the virus, the sources of information and the mother’s and doctor’s attitude towards vaccination Conclusion: The intervention strategies to protect young people against HPV infection should focus on adequate and reliable information to the various specialties health professionals, parents and the media.