Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Students Enrolled in Health Related Courses at Saint Louis University towards Human Papillomavirus (Philippines)

Abstract

Introduction: College students are at high risk for Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, yet their knowledge, attitude and practices appear inadequate. Researcher has paid attention to college students in health related courses because this group generally represents only a small subset of samples of the broader college population. Objective: To assess students’ knowledge, attitude and practices towards Human papillomavirus Methods: Voluntary and anonymous student (N=432) participation was solicited in randomly selected health related courses. They completed the questionnaire during September 2010 assessing HPV knowledge on modes of transmission, diseases caused by HPV, signs and symptoms and prevention and control of HPV; attitude towards HPV infection and vaccine and practices to reduce HPV infection. Results: Students in health related courses had poor knowledge regarding modes of transmission of HPV and diseases caused by HPV. However, their knowledge was good on signs and symptoms of HPV and prevention and control measures. The attitude of students was positive towards HPV infection and the vaccine and students had good practices to reduce HPV infection. There was significant difference p-value < 0.05 when students were grouped according to course in all aspects of HPV with medical students being more knowledgeable compared to other students. Conclusion: Sex education and public health funded campaigns are overdue and necessary, especially targeting the young adults. Keywords: Human papillomavirus, knowledge, attitude, practices, students in health related courses