Knowledge, Attitudes, and Uptake of Human Papillomavirus Vaccination among Young Women in Al Najaf City, Iraq

https://doi.org/10.46610/IJSMWH.2026.v07i01.004

Abstract

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a primary cause of cervical cancer; however, vaccination rates in many Middle Eastern regions remain low. This study evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and uptake of the HPV vaccine among women in Al Najaf City, Iraq.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 383 women (aged more than 18 years) using a developed digital survey disseminated via social media and QR codes. Data were analyzed using minimum, maximum, mean, and standard deviation. Chi-square was used for qualitative data. General Linear Model and One-way ANOVA were used for quantitative data. P-value ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: Although 73.37% of participants identified the link between HPV and cervical cancer, only 35.77% had heard of the vaccine. Vaccine uptake was alarmingly low at 2.61% (n = 10), with 80% of those vaccinated utilizing private clinics. Significant knowledge gaps were identified among housewives (P = 0.001). multivariable analysis revealed that women with good knowledge were 8.67 times more likely to be vaccinated (aPR = 8. 67, P = 0.03), and those with high monthly income (>1,000,000 IQD) were 4.64 times more likely to seek vaccination (aPR = 4.64, P = 0.05). Attitudes were generally positive (74.93% supported including vaccination in the national immunization program); however, fears of infertility and risky sexual behavior hindered these attitudes.

Conclusion: A profound knowledge practice gap exists in Al Najaf. High educational levels and positive attitudes do not translate into vaccine uptake due to structural barriers and a lack of public availability. To meet the World Health Organization elimination targets, the Iraqi Ministry of Health must integrate the HPV vaccine into the national immunization program and launch physician-led educational campaigns to debunk safety myths.