[Human papilloma virus: knowledge, beliefs and behavior of Quebec women]

A program providing free immunization against human papillomavirus (HPV) was launched in the province of Quebec in 2008. A survey was conducted to describe the knowledge, attitudes and behaviours of young women in Quebec regarding HPV infections.

In 2009, a questionnaire was sent by mail to 2,400 women, 24 years of age, randomly selected from the Quebec provincial health insurance database (RAMQ).

The overall response rate was 56%. More than 80% of participants had heard of HPV and HPV vaccine. Less than half knew the mode of transmission of HPV. More than 80% of participants knew the causes of cervical cancer. Most women said they were dissatisfied with the information received on HPV. Only 5% of participants had received the HPV vaccine. The average age at first sexual intercourse was 17 years. More than 80% of participants had been screened for cervical cancer with an average age for screening initiation of 18 years.

This study provided basic data from a representative sample of women, 24 years of age, in Quebec. Although most women surveyed had heard of HPV and the vaccine, gaps remained in their knowledge in addition to a dissatisfaction about the information they received. A better way to inform the young adult population should be developed.