Knowledge and Utilization of the Human Papillomavirus Vaccine among Women Attending Mariere Memorial Central Hospital, Ughelli, Delta, Nigeria

Abstract

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a major public health concern and a leading cause of cervical cancer among women worldwide. HPV vaccination remains one of the most effective preventive strategies; however, uptake in Nigeria, particularly in Delta State, remains low. This descriptive cross-sectional study assessed the knowledge and utilization of the HPV vaccine among women attending Mariere Memorial Hospital, Ughelli, Delta State. A total of 109 sexually active women were selected using Yamane’s sampling formula from a population of 150. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire developed in line with the study objectives and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, with results presented in frequency tables and percentages. Chi-square analysis was used to test the association between knowledge and utilization at a 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that while 58.7% of respondents demonstrated good knowledge of HPV and its vaccine, only 34.9% had received at least one dose, and just 21.5% completed the full vaccination schedule. The major factors influencing utilization included awareness from healthcare workers, perceived susceptibility, cost of the vaccine, and accessibility of services. Barriers identified were high vaccine cost (31.2%), limited service availability (39.6%), fear of side effects (19.4%), and cultural beliefs (15.3%). A statistically significant relationship was found between knowledge level and vaccine utilization (p = 0.021). The study concludes that although knowledge of HPV and the vaccine is relatively high among the respondents, utilization remains suboptimal due to structural, financial, and socio-cultural barriers. It recommends intensified community-based awareness campaigns, subsidy or free provision of the vaccine, and integration of HPV vaccination into the national immunization program to enhance accessibility and coverage.