Background:
Cervical cancer is one of the leading preventable cancers among women, with persistent infection by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) recognized as its primary cause. Although safe and effective HPV vaccines are available, vaccination coverage remains inadequate in many low- and middle-income countries. Multiple factors influence vaccine acceptance, including limited knowledge, misconceptions regarding vaccine safety, financial constraints, cultural beliefs, and insufficient recommendations from healthcare professionals. Conversely, family encouragement, peer support, positive attitudes toward vaccination, and improved access to immunization services can enhance vaccine uptake. Identifying these influencing factors is essential for developing evidence-based strategies to strengthen cervical cancer prevention programs.
Aim:
To assess the barriers and facilitators influencing HPV vaccine uptake for cervical cancer prevention among adolescent girls and young women in selected communities.
Methodology:
A community-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 adolescent girls and young women selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge related to HPV infection and cervical cancer, and a five-point Likert scale assessing perceived barriers and facilitators to HPV vaccination. Data analysis included descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Associations between demographic variables and HPV vaccine uptake were examined using the chi-square test, with statistical significance established at p < 0.05.
Results:
The findings indicated that many participants demonstrated limited knowledge regarding HPV infection and its vaccine. Frequently reported barriers included inadequate awareness, concerns about vaccine safety and adverse effects, vaccine cost, prevailing sociocultural beliefs, and the absence of recommendations from healthcare providers. Facilitating factors comprised strong family support, encouragement from peers, awareness of cervical cancer risk, and the availability of vaccination services through public healthcare facilities. Educational status, previous exposure to HPV-related information, and family support were significantly associated with vaccine uptake (p < 0.05).
Conclusion:
HPV vaccine uptake is shaped by an interaction of individual knowledge, social influences, and healthcare-related factors. Improving public awareness, addressing misconceptions, promoting healthcare provider advocacy, and ensuring affordable, accessible vaccination services are essential to increase HPV vaccine acceptance and strengthen cervical cancer prevention efforts.