HPV Vaccination in Romania: Attitudes, Practice, and Knowledge Among Frontline Healthcare Providers

TL;DR

Romanian healthcare providers have mixed attitudes and knowledge about HPV vaccination, which affects vaccine uptake and cervical cancer prevention efforts.

Contribution

This study identifies barriers and training needs among Romanian physicians regarding HPV vaccination.

Findings

Most physicians provide HPV vaccination services but report only moderate public and physician attitudes toward the vaccine.

Parental hesitation is the main barrier to HPV vaccine uptake according to healthcare providers.

The majority of physicians believe additional training on HPV vaccination is necessary.

Abstract

Recognizing cervical cancer as a major public health concern, Romania was among the first EU countries to introduce human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination in 2008. Despite multiple strategies implemented over the past 17 years, HPV vaccine coverage remains one of the lowest in the EU, while cervical cancer mortality rates are among the highest. To explore the underlying factors, we conducted a cross-sectional study involving 209 family physicians at the national level. The study assessed their attitudes, practice, knowledge, and training needs related to HPV vaccination. The majority of physicians (90%) reported that they provide HPV vaccination services, and 88.5% considered themselves to have good and very good knowledge about HPV, which they routinely share during consultations with patients. However, respondents noted that both physician and public attitudes toward HPV vaccination are only moderately positive, which limits vaccine uptake and the success of prevention efforts. Parental hesitation was the main barrier, mentioned by 81.8% of respondents. The majority (71.3%) of doctors indicated that they were able to adequately respond to patients’ questions, but 81.4% of respondents expressed the view that additional training is needed for healthcare professionals on HPV infection and vaccination. These findings highlight the need for coordinated efforts to increase demand and trust in HPV vaccination. Recommended strategies include targeted professional training, public information campaigns, and the development of strong cross-sector partnerships to support vaccination efforts.