Perception and attitude of women towards HPV vaccine

CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is a preventive measure aimed at reducing the risk of cervical cancer, which is primarily caused by persistent HPV infections. The virus is a leading cause of several types of cancers, including cervical, oropharyngeal, and anogenital cancers (Bruni et al., 2020). Despite the availability of this vaccine, the uptake, particularly among women in various parts of the world, has remained relatively low. Various factors influence the perception and attitude of women towards the HPV vaccine, ranging from awareness levels, cultural beliefs, and socioeconomic status to the influence of healthcare providers (Crosby et al., 2021).

Studies have shown that women’s perception of the HPV vaccine is heavily influenced by the information they receive, which can either be supportive or detrimental to vaccine acceptance. In some cases, misinformation and myths surrounding vaccines have significantly contributed to vaccine hesitancy (Abbas et al., 2022). Women who are well-informed about the benefits and safety of the HPV vaccine are more likely to have a positive attitude towards vaccination. In contrast, those who are exposed to negative media portrayals or cultural myths are often skeptical about the vaccine’s efficacy and safety (Nguyen et al., 2023).

Cultural and religious beliefs also play a crucial role in shaping women’s attitudes toward the HPV vaccine. In many African societies, where there is a heavy reliance on traditional beliefs and practices, the HPV vaccine is often viewed with suspicion. Misconceptions that vaccines promote promiscuity or affect fertility are rampant, especially in rural areas where access to credible healthcare information is limited (Ibekwe et al., 2023). This has led to a low uptake of the vaccine among women who would otherwise benefit from it.

Socioeconomic factors such as education and income also determine how women perceive the HPV vaccine. Women from lower-income backgrounds or with less formal education may have limited access to healthcare services and information, which influences their attitudes toward vaccination (Sauvageau et al., 2021). In contrast, women with higher education levels and better socioeconomic status are more likely to embrace the vaccine due to their access to healthcare resources and knowledge of its importance.

Furthermore, healthcare providers play an essential role in shaping women’s perception and attitude toward the HPV vaccine. Women are more likely to accept the vaccine if recommended by a trusted healthcare provider (Marlow et al., 2022). However, in many cases, the lack of communication between healthcare professionals and women about the importance of the vaccine has resulted in missed opportunities for vaccination.

This study, therefore, seeks to explore the various factors that shape women’s perceptions and attitudes toward the HPV vaccine. By understanding these factors, healthcare stakeholders can develop targeted interventions to increase HPV vaccine acceptance and coverage among women, particularly in regions where cervical cancer remains a significant public health concern (Hughes et al., 2021).

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide, with approximately 570,000 new cases and over 311,000 deaths reported annually (World Health Organization, 2022). Despite the proven effectiveness of the HPV vaccine in preventing cervical cancer, its acceptance and uptake remain suboptimal, especially in low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria. Various studies have highlighted the importance of vaccination as a primary preventive measure, yet the perception and attitude of women toward the HPV vaccine continue to hinder its widespread adoption (Mbachu et al., 2022).

Several factors contribute to this challenge. First, there is a lack of awareness and education about the benefits and safety of the HPV vaccine. Many women, particularly those in rural areas, are not adequately informed about the role of HPV in causing cervical cancer and the preventive nature of the vaccine (Nkwo et al., 2022). In many instances, healthcare professionals fail to provide sufficient information or recommend the vaccine during routine medical visits, further exacerbating the issue.

Cultural and religious beliefs also pose significant barriers to vaccine acceptance. Misconceptions about the vaccine, such as fears of infertility, promotion of promiscuity, or violation of religious norms, have led to widespread skepticism among women (Owoeye et al., 2021). These beliefs are often reinforced by community leaders or misinformation spread through social media, leading to widespread vaccine hesitancy.

Additionally, socioeconomic barriers such as the cost of vaccination and access to healthcare services significantly impact the uptake of the HPV vaccine. Women from low-income families may find the cost of the vaccine prohibitive, while those living in rural areas may not have easy access to vaccination centers (Adebayo et al., 2021). These challenges, combined with a lack of targeted public health campaigns, have resulted in low vaccination rates and continued high rates of cervical cancer.

Given these issues, there is a need for a comprehensive understanding of the perception and attitude of women toward the HPV vaccine to develop strategies that will improve vaccine uptake. This study seeks to address this gap by exploring the factors that influence women’s attitudes and perceptions, with the aim of informing public health policies and interventions that will increase vaccination rates and reduce cervical cancer incidence.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of this study is to explore the perception and attitude of women towards the HPV vaccine and the factors that influence these views. The specific objectives are:

  1. To assess the level of awareness among women regarding the HPV vaccine.
  2. To examine the cultural, religious, and social factors that influence women’s attitudes towards the HPV vaccine.
  3. To investigate the role of healthcare providers in shaping women’s perceptions of the HPV vaccine.
  4. To identify the barriers that prevent women from accepting and receiving the HPV vaccine.

1.4 Research Questions

  1. What is the level of awareness of women regarding the HPV vaccine?
  2. How do cultural, religious, and social factors affect women’s attitudes toward the HPV vaccine?
  3. What role do healthcare providers play in influencing women’s perceptions of the HPV vaccine?
  4. What are the barriers to the acceptance and uptake of the HPV vaccine among women?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

  1. There is a significant relationship between awareness of the HPV vaccine and its acceptance among women.
  2. Cultural, religious, and social factors significantly influence the attitude of women towards the HPV vaccine.
  3. Healthcare provider recommendations have a significant impact on women’s decision to accept the HPV vaccine.
  4. Socioeconomic barriers significantly hinder the uptake of the HPV vaccine among women.

1.6 Significance of the Study

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