https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8049-237X
Abstract
Background
Epidemiological evidence has shown that human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most frequent cause of sexually transmitted infection, and vaccination is an essential measure to prevent associated diseases and complications. This study aimed to assess the HPV vaccine uptake and its associated factors as well as HPV vaccine hesitancy by female healthcare workers (HCWs) in Saudi Arabia.
Methods
This online, questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study involved female HCWs in Saudi Arabia between July and October 2022. The study tool included questions about sociodemographic, occupational, and reproductive characteristics, uptake of HPV vaccination, and reasons of hesitancy. Chi-squared and t-tests were used for bivariate analyses, and multivariable logistic regression was used to adjust for confounders.
Results
The total number of participants was 1857. Around 20% of HCWs received at least one dose of the HPV vaccine, and around 45% were willing to take it this year. Lower odds of vaccine uptake were reported among older participants and those with a higher level of education. However, nurses, HCWs with a previous HPV infection, those with a family history of cervical cancer, or those with a previous cervical cancer screening test had higher odds of receiving the vaccine. On the other hand, older participants and diploma degree holders were less willing to take the HPV vaccine. Higher odds of willingness were reported in married HCWs, those with a previous HPV infection, those who received a previous HPV vaccine dose, or those who were screened for cervical cancer. Lack of knowledge and some misconceptions were the most reported reasons for hesitancy.
Conclusion
Certain factors that affect HCWs personal decisions to take the vaccine were identified. By targeting these issues, epidemiologists, public health officials and women’s health care providers can work to increase HPV vaccine uptake and reduce the burden of HPV-related diseases in this population.
Abbreviations
HCW, healthcare workers; HPV, Human Papillomavirus; ORs, Odds ratios; Cis, confidence intervals.
Data Sharing Statement
The datasets used and/or analysed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.
Ethics Approval and Consent to Participate
The institutional review board (IRB) committee at Imam Abdurrahman Bin Faisal University approved the study with IRB number IRB-2022-01-178. Participation in the study was voluntary. Confidentiality of the data and anonymity were assured. Consent to participate was obtained from all participants. The study protocol is performed in accordance with the relevant guidelines.
Disclosure
The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.