Association between HPV and Head and Neck Cancer: Differences in Understanding among Three Distinct Populations

Laura J. White¹, Francis X. Creighton Jr², Justin C. Wise³ and Edie R. Hapner^1,

¹Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30308

²Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA 02114

³Oglethorpe University, Atlanta, GA 30319

Cite this paper:
Laura J. White, Francis X. Creighton Jr, Justin C. Wise and Edie R. Hapner. Association between HPV and Head and Neck Cancer: Differences in Understanding among Three Distinct Populations. American Journal of Cancer Prevention. 2014; 2(1):14-19. doi: 10.12691/ajcp-2-1-5

Abstract

The aim of this study is to compare the knowledge of the relationship between HPV and head and neck cancer (HNCA) in three unique populations: general public at a sporting event, undergraduates, and medical students, and to compare the frequency that a healthcare provider has discussed the topics of cervical cancer and HNCA amongst these populations. A one-way between subjects design was used to evaluate participants at a community based head and neck cancer screening, and students in individual classrooms. A28-item questionnaire was administered to 491 NASCAR race attendees, 186 undergraduate students, and 158 medical students. The survey assessed their knowledge of the relationship between HPV and HNCA using a Likert scale. The survey also assessed the level of information disseminated by healthcare providers regarding HPV and HNCA. NASCAR attendees evidenced significantly (p < .001, η² = .10) lower levels of knowledge of the relationship between HPV and cervical cancer than college or medical students. NASCAR attendees evidenced significantly (p < .001, η² = .02) lower levels of knowledge of the relationship between HPV and HNCA. NASCAR attendees reported significantly (p < .001, η² = .10) more frequent discussions with health care providers regarding HNCA compared to college or medical students. Undergraduates and medical students reported significantly (p < .001, η² = .02) more frequent discussions with health care providers regarding HPV than NASCAR attendees. Results demonstrated group differences in knowledge between the relationship of HPV and cervical cancer and HPV and HNCA. All groups were more aware of HPV’s association with cervical cancer than with HNCA.

Keywords:
adult head and neck carcinoma patient understanding HPV

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