Knowledge of Cervical Cancer and Human Papillomavirus Vaccines among Child-Bearing Aged Women in Hanoi, Vietnam

Abstract

Objectives: The study sought to examine knowledge of cervical cancer and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines among child-bearing aged women in Hanoi, Vietnam. Methods: In 2016, 807 women aged 18 to 49 years were recruited from one urban area and one rural area in 2016 and were examined through face-to-face paper-based interviews. Pearson's chi-square test and an independent t-test were utilized to compare awareness of cervical cancer and HPV vaccination among women according residential status. Results: Overall, 83.8% and 71.3% women had heard about cervical cancer and HPV vaccination, respectively. Mean knowledge scores for cervical cancer and HPV vaccination were 4.60±1.43 out of 7 and 1.53±1.35 out of 5, respectively. Women living in an urban area were more likely to be aware of cervical cancer and to be more knowledgeable of HPV vaccination than women in a rural area. Conclusions: Despite strong awareness, we found knowledge on cervical cancer and HPV vaccination to be alarmingly insufficient among Vietnamese women.<br />