Knowledge and perceptions of parents regarding human papillomavirus vaccination among girls aged 9–14 years attending urban clinics in Lusaka

Christine Mulenga; Beatrice Mwansa; Love Nakazwe; Joshua Banda; Sikangele Malipa; Mary Ngandu

doi:10.51867/ajernet.7.4.44

Authors

Christine Mulenga Cavendish University, Zambia
Beatrice Mwansa Cavendish University, Zambia https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7981-6157
Love Nakazwe Cavendish University, Zambia
Joshua Banda Cavendish University, Zambia
Sikangele Malipa Cavendish University, Zambia
Mary Ngandu Cavendish University, Zambia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51867/ajernet.7.4.44

Keywords:

Health Belief Model, Cervical Cancer, HPV Vaccination, Lusaka Urban Clinics, Parental Perception, Vaccine Utilization

Abstract

Humman Papilloma Virus is a group of viruses that infect the skin and moist surfaces of the body including the cervix, anus, penus, mouth and throat. Depending on the type some cause warts while others are a risk factor of cancer most commonly cervical cancers. Human Papilloma Vaccination reduces the risk of cancers by sensitizing the immune system to block High risk HPV types from causing cancer. This study assessed the knowledge, perceptions, and utilization determinants of parents regarding Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination for girls aged nine to fourteen years in Lusaka Urban, Zambia. This study was guided by the Health Belief Model which gives the point that individuals willingness to changes is based on their perceptions of health threats and the benefits they believe they have based on taking actions. The Study population was estimated at approximately 10,143 girls aged between 9-14 in Mtendere, Kamwala, and Kalingalinga, which was derived from the 2022 census ward total and the National Age distribution pattern. A probability sampling technique selected 200 participants (185 for quantitative questionnaires, 15 for qualitative interviews). A mixed-methods research strategy was used, using a cross-sectional convergent parallel study design. This approach was ideal for meeting the study objectives because it allowed for the simultaneous collection of quantitative data to measure parental knowledge and qualitative data to investigate parental attitudes within a single research period. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data was thematically analyzed. The results showed that 63.78% of respondents had heard of HPV, and 69.73% were aware of its link to cervical cancer. However, 36.22% were unaware of the virus. Qualitative findings showed varied parental attitudes. Many supported the vaccine, but hesitations remained regarding long-term side effects and cultural sensitivities. For vaccine utilization, 68.65% were aware of the HPV vaccine. Misconceptions were present: 21.6% believed the vaccine causes infertility, 18.9% believed it encourages early sexual activity, and 20.2% assumed it loses its effectiveness after sexual activity. This study states that while the baseline knowledge is present misinformation limits vaccination. The study illustrated that the Ministry of health should use and enhance community-based workshops including some local media to provide accurate information about vaccination of HPV.

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