[Knowledge of HPV-related genital lesions and of anti-HPV vaccination in a sample of women of north-eastern Italy].

AIM

Knowledge of human papilloma virus (HPV) infection and related genital lesions and vaccine is related to the success of the vaccination program. Authors have assessed knowledge, attitudes and beliefs on HPV and vaccination in a sample of women, in order to optimize any educational interventions.

METHODS

This study enrolled 212 consecutive women with no history of HPV-related genital lesions by means of an anonymous questionnaire. The questionnaire included 21 questions (19 with a multiple choice and 2 with open answers) to check awareness of HPV infection and related lesions, HPV transmission, vaccine and vaccination program expectations, sexual/precautionary behaviours after vaccination and the need felt for more information.

RESULTS

Forty-two percent of women in the study population know about HPV-related genital lesions, and 43% are aware of the right way of transmission; 75% have learned about the vaccine. In this last group 28% know that the vaccine efficiency is mainly limited to the HPV types included in the vaccine, 19.8% know that one of the vaccines can also prevent genital condylomata and 88% have heard about this vaccination program.

CONCLUSIONS

There is still a lack of information or access to information about HPV and more needs to be done to raise awareness of HPV vaccination. A percentage of 74.4 of women wish to receive more information and thinks that schools and family planning clinics should play a central role in teenagers' health education. There is a need to further train healthcare workers involved in the vaccination program in order to optimize their counselling to teenagers and parents.