Human PapillomaVirus Vaccine Uptake: Attitudes and Practices Among Moroccan Physicians

  • 0Laboratory of Research in Health Sciences and Technologies, Higher Institute of Health Sciences, Hassan First University of Settat, BP 555, Settat, Morocco.

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Physician awareness of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is low in Morocco, with only 16.6% recommending it. Increasing physician knowledge on HPV types and vaccine details is crucial for improving vaccination rates.

Area Of Science

  • Public Health
  • Vaccinology
  • Epidemiology

Background

  • Cervical cancer is a significant public health issue in Morocco, with high incidence and mortality rates.
  • The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine has been available since 2008, yet physician practices and attitudes remain understudied.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To assess physicians' awareness and practices regarding the HPV vaccine in Morocco.
  • To identify factors influencing physicians' recommendation of the HPV vaccine.

Main Methods

  • A structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used.
  • Data were collected from 500 physicians across various Moroccan regions between March 2019 and March 2020.

Main Results

  • Physician awareness of common HPV types linked to cervical cancer was low (36.6%).
  • Only 16.6% of physicians recommended the HPV vaccine, though 63% of aware physicians were willing to recommend it.
  • Factors influencing recommendation included physician age, practice sector, and awareness of HPV types, vaccine schedules, and brand name.

Conclusions

  • Physician awareness regarding HPV and its vaccine is insufficient in Morocco.
  • Targeted educational interventions are urgently needed to enhance physician knowledge and improve HPV vaccine uptake.