Assessment of human papillomavirus literacy among midwifery students: a cross-sectional study

Human papillomavirus, the primary etiological agent of cervical cancer, is considered to be the most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine the human papillomavirus literacy levels of midwifery students.

This cross-sectional and descriptive study included midwifery students enrolled in a university in Türkiye during the 2024-2025 academic year. Out of 327 students enrolled in the midwifery program, 284 voluntarily participated in the study. Data were collected online using a Personal Information Form and the Human Papillomavirus Literacy Scale. A significance level of p<0.05 was used in the data analysis. Ethics committee and institutional approvals were obtained before the study.

The mean age of the students was 21.08±2.46, and 27.8% of them were in the first year. A majority (82.7%) reported having information about human papillomavirus, primarily obtained from school (79.6%), social media/TV (48.6%), and health institutions (27.5%). Most students (97.5%) knew human papillomavirus is contagious, and 96.1% recommended human papillomavirus screening to others. The mean total Human Papillomavirus Literacy Scale score was 90.85±15.60, on a scale ranging from 24 to 120. The subdimension scores were as follows: 45.28±8.13 for knowledge, 21.75±4.56 for screening, and 23.81±4.04 for analysis.

The study found that midwifery students have a high level of human papillomavirus literacy. The majority reported acquiring their knowledge through school and media, highlighting the positive impact of formal education and media on human papillomavirus awareness. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating human papillomavirus education into the curriculum. Additionally, community-based education programs can be effective in reaching broader populations, increasing awareness, and promoting preventive health behaviors.