Knowledge, Risk Perception and Acceptance of Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Among Female Undergraduate Students in Nigerian Universities

Background

Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women in Nigeria. Human papillomavirus vaccination offers a highly effective strategy for reducing the burden of cervical cancer. However, vaccine uptake remains low due to inadequate awareness, misconceptions, cultural concerns, cost barriers, and limited access. Female university students represent an important target population for preventive interventions because they are at an age where vaccination can still provide substantial benefits. Understanding knowledge levels, risk perception, and vaccine acceptance among young women is critical for developing effective awareness campaigns and vaccination programs. This study seeks to evaluate factors influencing acceptance of human papillomavirus vaccination among female undergraduate students in Nigerian universities.

Research Objectives

• Assess knowledge of human papillomavirus and cervical cancer among female students.
• Determine levels of risk perception regarding cervical cancer.
• Evaluate willingness to receive HPV vaccination.
• Examine factors influencing vaccine acceptance.
• Identify predictors of HPV vaccine uptake intention.

Research Questions

• What is the level of knowledge of HPV and cervical cancer among female students?
• How do students perceive their risk of cervical cancer?
• What proportion of students are willing to receive HPV vaccination?
• Which factors influence vaccine acceptance?
• What factors predict intention to receive HPV vaccination?

Suggested Methodology

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