Comparing knowledge, attitude and parental acceptance of human papillomavirus vaccination among healthcare and non-healthcare providers in Nigeria

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination is a proven way to prevent cervical cancer. However, ignorance and hesitancy are limitations to its acceptance. To compare the knowledge, attitudes and parental acceptance of Nigerian parents (healthcare workers versus non healthcare workers) towards HPV, cervical cancer, and acceptance of the HPV vaccine for children under their care and themselves. An online quantitative cross-sectional study conducted from January–March 2024 used a cluster sampling technique with Nigeria’s 6 geopolitical zones serving as natural borders. The estimated minimum sample size for this study was 396 parents of girls. Participants were identified and categorized as health care workers (HCWs) or non-HCWs. Responses were obtained through social media disseminated questionnaire adapted from another study. Responses were summarized using descriptive statistics while significance testing was done using Chi Square. Significance level was set at P < 0.05. The study revealed significant differences between healthcare workers (HCWs) and non-HCWs in their awareness and knowledge of HPV and HPV vaccines, with HCWs demonstrating higher levels of awareness (93.3% vs. 70.2%) and knowledge (90.8% vs. 70.5%). Healthcare workers were more likely to be aware of cervical cancer (98.1% vs. 88.2%, p < 0.001) and know that it is preventable (95.5% vs. 88.7%, p = 0.022), with 54.3% of HCWs identifying the HPV vaccine as a method of prevention, compared to 40.9% of non-HCWs(p = 0.013). Similarly, HCWs were more likely to have received the HPV vaccine (8.40% vs 6.3%, p=0.441) and be willing to accept it for themselves (80.4% vs 72.7%, p=0.179) if available and their daughters (84.7% vs 71.7%, p=0.007). However, uncertainty about side effects remained a major barrier to acceptance in both groups (52.0% of HCWs and 51.6% of non-HCWs, p=0.915). Our study shows that awareness of HPV and its vaccine is high, but concerns about side effects hinder acceptance. Ongoing education, particularly targeting parents of eligible children, can help address vaccine hesitancy and improve uptake of HPV vaccine.