Impact of an Educational Intervention Video in HPV Prevention among Tunisian Female Students: A before-and-after...

Cervical cancer is the second most common gynecological cancer in Tunisia. The HPV vaccine is a crucial tool for preventing and controlling this disease. Training healthcare providers and equipping them with adequate knowledge is essential. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an educational intervention video (EIV) on the knowledge and perceptions of HPV, cervical cancer, and the HPV vaccine among Tunisian female students.

A quasi-experimental study involving a single interventional group was conducted among 158 female students. Participants were interviewed before and after watching the EIV. The chi-square test using McNemar's method assessed variations between pre- and post-intervention responses. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

The average age of participants was 19.74±1.7 years. The EIV had a positive impact on the scores for knowledge and perceptions related to HPV and cervical cancer. A significant difference was observed between the intention to receive the HPV vaccine and perceived severity of HPV, perceived benefits of vaccination, and perceived barriers. Notably, 50.6% of female students believed the HPV vaccine should be available upon request and covered by health insurance, while 46.2% thought it should be included in the Tunisian vaccination schedule.

The EIV improved students' knowledge and perceptions about HPV, cervical cancer, and the HPV vaccine. Tailored educational strategies may enhance vaccine acceptance, especially when integrated early in academic training.