Odimegwu CL¹, Okoro OS^2,, Nnagbo JP², Chime PU¹, Mbanefo NR¹, Adiri CO², Uwaezuoke SN¹, Nnaji HC², Nkwo PO², Eze MI², Ezeani IU³

Background: The prevalence of human papilloma virus(HPV) infection is high in the general population and HPV is considered an important cause of cervical cancer which is a preventable disease. However, previous studies done in other settings in Nigeria and other African countries suggested that there was low level of awareness of HPV infection and its vaccine. Objectives: This study assessed the knowledge and awareness of HPV infection and its vaccine among female secondary school students in Enugu metropolis, Nigeria, prior to the National HPV vaccination rollout in October 2023. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 647 female students aged 10–19 years in Enugu metropolis in October 2023. Data was collected using structured, self-administered questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to explore associations between knowledge and demographic variables. Results: The mean age of participants was 13.45 ± 1.81 years. Overall, 78% had never heard of HPV, and 79.8% demonstrated poor knowledge of the HPV vaccine. Students older than 13 years and those with more educated parents showed significantly higher awareness. Schools were the most cited source of information (53%). Misconceptions about HPV symptoms and prevention were common. Conclusion: Awareness of HPV and its vaccine was poor among the target demographic, underscoring the need for early school-based education and multi-sect oral stakeholder engagement to improve awareness of HPV infection and its vaccination uptake.

HPV, Cervical Cancer, Vaccine Awareness, Adolescents, Nigeria, School Health