Aim: This study aims to assess the knowledge of HPV infection and the practice of primary prevention, the willingness of HPV uptake, and attitudinal differences and correlates among randomly sampled secondary school students across the three senatorial districts of Benue State, Nigeria.
Background: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a
significant public health concern globally, especially in low- and
middle-income countries. It is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted
infections (STIs). In Africa, including Nigeria, HPV prevalence is high,
contributing to a substantial burden of cervical cancer. Despite challenges,
massive HPV vaccination campaigns in Africa show promise for preventing
cervical cancer cases. In Benue State, Nigeria, limited research exists on
several aspects of HPV knowledge and attitudes towards HPV among secondary
school students. Methods:
The cross-sectional study was conducted among adolescents aged 10–19 years in
six secondary schools in three local government areas (LGAs) in Benue State,
Nigeria. Two-stage sampling was used to select the LGAs and schools, with a
final sample size of 591 students. Within these schools, students were
recruited using simple random sampling, which gives every student an equal
chance of being selected, ensuring fair representation. The selected schools
represent both junior and senior secondary school levels and span across the
three senatorial districts of the state. Data were collected using a
self-administered questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, HPV
knowledge, prevention practices, and willingness for HPV vaccination.
Statistical analyses included univariate analyses and tests of association,
with significance set at p < 0.05 or 0.001 depending on the level of the
stringency of the evidence required. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25.
Results: This study found a statistically significant median
difference in the perceived knowledge that HPV infection is a sexually
transmitted infection (STI) based on age. Only 35.4% of the participants were
males, and 86.8% were between the ages of 10 and 16. Only 24.7% acknowledged
that HPV can be transmitted during sexual intercourse, and 36.2% recognized
that HPV can be transmitted via skin-to-skin contact. In the survey, 48.1%
noted that HPV can cause cervical cancer. Around half (50.9%) acknowledged that
early sexual debut increases the risk of acquiring HPV, while only 28.1%
recognized vaccination as a preventive strategy against HPV infection. Only 35%
correctly stated the best time for the HPV vaccine. In assessing the practice
of HPV prevention, 14.9% are in a sexual relationship and 10.3% admitted to not
using condoms during sexual intercourse. Also, 11.8% have had STIs, and 27.2%
have previously undergone HIV screening. Various bivariate analyses showed some
varying behavioural differences and correlates of HPV infection among young
adolescents in Benue State, Nigeria.
Conclusions: This
study provides valuable insights into HPV knowledge, prevention practices, and
willingness to uptake HPV vaccination among secondary school students in Benue
State, Nigeria. The significance of the differences and correlates was
discussed using themes. The research has unpacked complex relationships that
could have public health implications for researchers and policymakers.
Moreover, ten actionable policy recommendations were prescribed. Several
interventions and areas for further study were proposed. The study also
recommended that public health campaigns can leverage existing infrastructure,
and healthcare providers can play a key role in raising HPV awareness.
Author (s) Details
Evelyn Erdoo Orya
Sydani Group, Abuja, Nigeria.
Kayode Khalid Bello
Federal Medical Centre, Keffi, Nasarawa State, Nigeria.
Sidney Sampson
Sydani Group, Abuja, Nigeria.
Esther Awazzi
Envuladu
Jos University Teaching Hospital, Katon Rikkos, Plateau State, Nigeria.
Hilary I. Okagbue
Sydani Institute for Research and Innovation, Sydani Group, Abuja, Nigeria.
Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/acmms/v3/2627
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