EFFECT OF AN EDUCATIONAL INTERVENTION ON HPV VACCINE KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE AMONG PRECLINICAL YEARS MEDICAL STUDENTS IN KURNOOL.

Background: Our study aimed to assess medical students' knowledge and attitudes toward the HPV vaccine as well as the effects of a brief educational intervention. This was done because there is a lack of knowledge about the potential of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in India, even among medical personnel. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a government teaching hospital. Participants were given a 22-item questionnaire about their understanding and acceptance of the HPV vaccine both before and after an educational intervention. An informative group lecture served as the intervention. Results: In August 2022, a total of 168 students were surveyed, followed by a lecture on the same day. The same students were asked to fill out the same questionnaire again in October, which was 3 months after the intervention. The results showed that after the intervention, 97.3%(138/142) of the participants recognized HPV as a sexually transmitted infection, compared to 92.9%(156/168) before, (p < 0.05). Additionally, awareness of HPV affecting all genders increased from 81.5%(137/168) to 95.2%(135/142), (p < 0.01). The participants also demonstrated a better understanding of HPV's association with various cancers. Furthermore, awareness of the vaccine's availability for all genders increased from 75.6%(127/168) to 87.5%(124/142), (p < 0.01) and the willingness to receive the vaccine significantly rose from 76% (114/150) to 92.4% (118/128), (p < 0.01). These findings highlight the positive impact of educational interventions on HPV-related knowledge and attitudes among medical students. Conclusion: In conclusion, the study demonstrated a significant improvement in medical students' knowledge and attitudes towards the HPV vaccine following an educational intervention. To enhance HPV vaccination rates, targeted awareness campaigns, education, and improved accessibility are essential in reducing the burden of HPV-related diseases and preventing cervical cancer. Addressing these challenges will help achieve broader vaccine acceptance and protect the population from the consequences of HPV infection. Further studies are needed to evaluate and standardize HPV education programs in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]