Journal of Clinical Trials
Open Access
ISSN: 2167-0870
ISSN: 2167-0870
Fatima Al-Hassan
King Khalid University, Saudi Arabia
Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Clin Trials
Aim: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) remains one of the leading causes of cervical cancer worldwide despite the availability of safe and effective vaccines. Nursing students, as future healthcare professionals, play a vital role in educating communities about HPV prevention, early screening, and vaccination. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and awareness regarding cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination among undergraduate nursing students.
Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 180 undergraduate nursing students enrolled in the first, second, third, and fourth academic years at the College of Nursing, King Khalid University, Saudi Arabia. Participants were selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire consisting of demographic information, multiple-choice questions assessing knowledge of HPV infection and cervical cancer, and a validated attitude and awareness scale regarding HPV vaccination and screening practices. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 27, and descriptive as well as inferential statistics were applied.
Results: Among the participants, 82% were female and 18% were male, with a mean age of 21.4 years. Approximately 68% demonstrated moderate knowledge regarding HPV infection, while only 24% showed good knowledge of HPV vaccination guidelines. Nearly 79% expressed positive attitudes toward receiving or recommending the HPV vaccine, although only 31% had received at least one vaccine dose. Students who had previously attended educational workshops on women's health demonstrated significantly higher knowledge scores (p < 0.05). Awareness regarding cervical cancer screening methods was satisfactory in 72% of participants, but misconceptions regarding vaccine eligibility and dosage schedules remained common.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that although nursing students possess a generally positive attitude toward HPV vaccination, important knowledge gaps still exist regarding HPV transmission, vaccination schedules, and cervical cancer prevention strategies. Integrating comprehensive HPV education into undergraduate nursing curricula, together with regular awareness campaigns and practical training, can significantly improve future nurses' ability to educate patients and promote preventive healthcare. Strengthening nursing education in this area will contribute to increased vaccination acceptance and improved public health outcomes.
Fatima Al-Hassan is an Associate Professor in the College of Nursing at King Khalid University, Saudi Arabia. She earned her Ph.D. in Community Health Nursing and has over 18 years of experience in nursing education, women's health, preventive medicine, and public health research. Her research interests include cervical cancer prevention, HPV vaccination awareness, maternal health, and health promotion among young adults. Al-Hassan has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in international nursing and public health journals and actively participates in scientific conferences, curriculum development, and community-based health education programs.