Knowledge and Perception of Human Papillomavirus in Quilombola Communities in Northeast Brazil

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a DNA virus responsible for one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. Poor and low knowledge of the vaccine's efficacy, security, and existence is still a barrier to vaccination, especially in low and middle-income countries. This cross-sectional study analyzed knowledge about HPV among 307 adults in quilombola communities in northeast Brazil. The questions were about HPV, transmission, prevention, and relation with genital warts and cervical cancer. Data presentation used absolute and relative frequency. Chi-Square or Fisher's Exact tests were applied to compare categorical variables. All statistical associations were set at a significance level of p ≤ 0.05. The median age of participants was 41.4 years old, with the majority being women. They were individuals with low monthly income and low educational levels, with more than half being illiterate or with only primary education. Knowledge about HPV was greater among young individuals and women were better informed about the HPV association to genital warts and HPV vaccination of their children. Most information about HPV was acquired through traditional media (TV/newspapers/radio). A better knowledge of HPV and its consequences may increase vaccination rates and reduce cancer cases associated with this virus.