Assessment of attitudes and practices regarding human papillomavirus vaccines among Medical University students: preliminary results.

Introduction

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections are highly prevalent and are linked to a range of health conditions, from benign lesions to several oncological diseases. Safe and highly effective HPV vaccines have been developed; however, vaccination rates remain suboptimal in many countries, including Bulgaria. As future medical professionals, the attitudes and practices of healthcare students toward HPV vaccination are of extreme importance. Aim: To evaluate the attitudes and practices of university healthcare students regarding HPV vaccines. Materials and methods: An anonymous online survey was administered to a total of 245 medical, dental, and pharmacy students at the Medical University of Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS v. 24; p<0.05 was considered significant.

Results

The majority of participants (86.5%, n=212) had not been vaccinated against HPV, but more than half (n=121) expressed a willingness to be vaccinated. The proportion of vaccinated individuals increased with the number of sexual partners reported in the previous year (χ2=10.44, p=0.033). Approximately two-thirds of the individuals surveyed (n=157) would recommend vaccination, with a higher likelihood among women (U=1848.5, p<0.001). Vaccinated respondents tended to have greater distrust of the myth regarding reproductive consequences (U=1926.0, p=0.002). Embarrassment was not perceived as a major barrier, but 21.2% (n=52) stated that cost was. There was a consensus among all majors on the necessity for enhanced awareness, which is particularly pronounced among medical students (H=13.13, p<0.001). Unvaccinated respondents had a higher interest in gaining more knowledge (U=1971.0, p=0.003), just like first- to third-year students (H=9.37, p=0.017).

Conclusion

While overall vaccine confidence and attitudes are high, addressing specific concerns (such as safety, personal risk, and cost) could improve HPV vaccine uptake and acceptance.