Study of Awareness of HPV Vaccine Among MBBS Medical Students and Paramedical Workers in National Capital Region Institute of Medical Sciences, Meerut, U.P., India

Background: Carcinoma cervix is one of the few malignancies where an etiological agent HPV has been identified and primary prevention with HPV vaccination is available, but awareness regarding this even in MBBS students and paramedical workers is limited. Objective: To evaluate awareness among MBBS students and paramedical workers regarding prevention of cervical carcinoma with HPV vaccination (its availability, effectiveness, route, cost, number of doses, age group, safety and approval). To assess the participants after HPV vaccination awareness demonstration. Methodology: In this cross-sectional study, 290 medical students and 140 paramedical workers were included. Their knowledge and awareness regarding cervical cancer and HPV vaccination was evaluated through a questionnaire. A small session regarding HPV vaccination awareness was also conducted. Data were analysed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) ver. 21 software. Results: Majority of MBBS students and paramedical workers were aware regarding cervical cancer, and its prevention by HPV vaccine but awareness regarding route of transmission of HPV, route, dose and approval of vaccination was higher in MBBS student. Most of the students were willing to get vaccinated after the study and showed good response after HPV vaccination awareness demonstration. Conclusion: The current study suggests that MBBS students and paramedical workers have overall good knowledge and awareness about carcinoma cervix, HPV and HPV vaccination.