The Impact of an Educational Program on the Awareness and Knowledge of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccine Among Secondary School Girls in Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND

The objectives were to assess the effectiveness of the educational program in enhancing students' understanding of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, correcting misconceptions, and increasing overall awareness. Additionally, the study aimed to identify factors influencing knowledge improvement and willingness to be vaccinated against HPV, including prior knowledge, information sources, session attendance, and school type.

METHODS

In this study, 148 participants were enrolled from secondary schools in Saudi Arabia, and data were collected through pre- and post-educational session assessments, logistic regression analyses, and qualitative investigations. Educational sessions focused on key aspects of the HPV vaccine, including its preventive benefits, administration details, and side effects, tailored to address common misconceptions and enhance understanding among students.

RESULTS

The study revealed significant improvements in students' knowledge post-educational sessions, particularly in key areas such as cervical cancer prevention, gender recommendations, vaccine administration, and side effect awareness. Prior knowledge, information sources, session attendance, and school type significantly influenced knowledge enhancement and willingness to be vaccinated against HPV. The qualitative analysis provided additional insights into challenges, perceptions, and misconceptions surrounding HPV vaccination, underlining the significance of targeted education and cultural sensitivity in promoting vaccination uptake.

CONCLUSION

The findings underscored the effectiveness of the educational intervention in enhancing HPV vaccine awareness, dispelling myths, and fostering informed decision-making among Saudi Arabian adolescent populations. The study emphasizes the critical role of tailored educational programs in correcting misconceptions, promoting accurate knowledge, and ultimately increasing vaccination acceptance for improved public health outcomes and disease prevention efforts. Ongoing efforts are essential to sustain and expand educational initiatives to enhance HPV vaccine understanding and adolescent uptake.