Determinants of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine uptake and health literacy regarding HPV infection and vaccine among undergraduate university students in Greece.

BACKGROUND/

OBJECTIVES

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted viral infection worldwide. HPV vaccination is a safe and highly effective public health measure. Although the vaccine serves as a cancer-prevention tool and is easily accessible in most developed countries, vaccination coverage remains suboptimal. The aim of the present study was to investigate vaccine uptake and determinants of HPV vaccination among university students, as well as to assess awareness of HPV infection and vaccination.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted in May 2024 using an anonymous online questionnaire distributed to undergraduate students across several faculties of the University of Ioannina, Greece.

RESULTS

A total of 1418 students (81.4 % female, 18.6 % male) completed the questionnaire. Overall, 66.0 % of participants reported having received the vaccine, while 86.6 % were aware of HPV. Vaccination was significantly associated with female sex (p < 0.001), younger age (p < 0.001), knowledge of National Immunization Program (NIP) recommendations (p < 0.001), and faculty of study (p = 0.004). Furthermore, participants who had learned about HPV from a healthcare professional were more likely to consider future vaccination (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite encouraging findings, optimal HPV vaccination coverage has not yet been achieved. Targeted interventions are needed to better inform young adults about the importance and benefits of vaccination, thereby addressing hesitancy and improving uptake.