College Students’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on Cervical Cancer Prevention in India

TL;DR

This study examines college students in India's knowledge and practices regarding cervical cancer prevention, finding low vaccine uptake and significant gaps in awareness.

Contribution

The study provides insights into cervical cancer prevention knowledge and vaccine uptake among Indian college students, highlighting demographic and behavioral factors.

Findings

Only 2.6% of students were vaccinated against cervical cancer.

Higher knowledge scores were associated with being advised by healthcare providers and being unconcerned about vaccine side effects.

Lack of awareness was the most cited barrier to vaccination.

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer, primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus, is a preventable disease. In India, it remains one of the most common cancers among women, despite significant declines in developed countries due to vaccination efforts.

Methods: This college-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Deoghar, Eastern India, among 1,156 students (1,100 from general colleges and 56 from a nursing college). A structured, self-administered questionnaire assessed socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cervical cancer and vaccination.

Results: The median age of participants was 19 years; most were female (92.2%), Hindu (91.9%), from general academic streams (95.2%), and from rural areas (65.7%). The median knowledge score was 5 (interquartile range (IQR): 2-7). Higher scores were seen among students aged 20-21 years (p = 0.033), rural residents (p = 0.001), Muslims (p = 0.009), and nursing students (p = 0.001). Those advised by healthcare providers (p < 0.001), who believed the vaccine prevents cervical cancer (p < 0.001), and who were unconcerned about side effects (p < 0.001) also had higher knowledge. Only 2.6% were vaccinated, and they had significantly higher scores (p < 0.001). Lack of awareness (46.6%) was the most cited barrier. The internet (52.1%) and healthcare workers (22.8%) were the main information sources.

Conclusion: Although basic awareness exists, significant knowledge gaps and low vaccine uptake remain. Enhanced education, active involvement of healthcare providers, and state-led vaccination campaigns are essential to improve prevention efforts.

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