Knowledge of Syphilis and Human Papillomavirus and Associated Factors in a Japanese University Setting: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Accurate knowledge of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is essential for informed health decisions, prevention, and control. This study aimed to assess syphilis and human papillomavirus (HPV) knowledge, examine factors associated with good knowledge, and identify preferred STI information sources in a Japanese university setting.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study surveyed Hiroshima University students and staff from August to October 2024, using convenience sampling. Participants completed an online, structured, and self-administered questionnaire assessing knowledge of syphilis and HPV. Logistic regression analysis examined the factors associated with having good knowledge of syphilis and HPV, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

More than half of the 688 participants reported good knowledge of both syphilis and HPV. Good syphilis knowledge was positively associated with medical campus affiliation (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.87; 95% CI: 1.32-2.66) and prior syphilis testing (AOR = 3.14; 95% CI: 1.84-5.57) and negatively associated with high (AOR = 0.33; 95% CI: 0.15-0.69) or very high perceived knowledge (AOR = 0.13; 95% CI: 0.05-0.32). Good HPV knowledge were positively associated with being female (AOR = 1.75; 95% CI: 1.23-2.49), medical campus affiliation (AOR = 2.07; 95% CI: 1.44-2.99), and employment as staff (AOR = 2.15; 95% CI: 1.12-4.18); and negatively associated with high (AOR = 0.20; 95% CI: 0.08-0.44) or very high perceived knowledge (AOR = 0.09; 95% CI: 0.03-0.21). Internet sources, public and medical institution websites, and social media were the most accessed and preferred channels for STI information.

CONCLUSION

Moderate knowledge levels and notable gaps between perceived and actual knowledge were observed. Sociodemographic and behavioral factors, particularly medical campus affiliation and being female, were associated with good knowledge levels. The preferred online information sources highlight opportunities to enhance STI knowledge through digital platforms.