Adolescent Attitudes Toward the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine in Kocaeli, Turkiye

Background The adolescent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rate is relatively high in developed countries and it is not widespread in Turkiye. This paper explores what factors influence the decision on the acceptance of the HPV vaccine by adolescents. Methods Data from 206 adolescents was gathered via a survey completed after consent from the parents and themselves between May 2022 and September 2022. The survey content was based on the Carolina HPV Immunization Attitudes and Beliefs Scale (CHIAS), each question being based on a 5-point Likert scale, together with additional questions to discover demographic factors. The participants were also questioned about their level of knowledge of HPV and its source. At the end of the questionnaire, once the adolescents were briefed on HPV vaccination by a doctor, questions about immunization against HPV were again redirected. Results The age of 206 participants was between 12 and 26 years old, and it was found that the knowledge level about the HPV vaccine increases as the age gets older. The adolescents believe that HPV protects more from cervical cancer than genital warts. 8.7% (n=18) of adolescents thought that the HPV vaccine could have long-term adverse effects. 33.5% (n=69) of them stated that their families could not afford the vaccine. After they were given more knowledge, it was found that they were more willing to have HPV immunization. Conclusions It is important to realize that teenagers' opinions can shift significantly, particularly in the context of informed decision-making and the provision of government financial assistance to parents. The comprehension of teenagers' perspectives and the extent of their knowledge regarding HPV is of paramount importance, given the likelihood of it being influenced by their own acceptance of the vaccine.