Building: Main Venue Building
Room: foyer
Date: 2017-02-08 03:30 PM – 04:30 PM
Last modified: 2017-01-23
Abstract
Background. Since 2007-2008 universal vaccination against Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) was included in the Italian national immunization programme. The vaccine is offered free of charge to 11-year-old girls who represent the primary target group. Currently, HPV vaccination coverage in the two target populations is substantially lower than WHO targets (95%). Objectives. This work aims to assess attitudes, knowledge and intentions towards Human Papillomavirus and HPV vaccination among female university students in Tuscany. Methods. The study design is based on a convenience sample (n=462) of female students attending the first and the second undergraduate year in the universities of Pisa and Florence. A mixed-mode approach was considered in order to reach the largest possible number of respondents. Results. The majority of the respondents (69%) are in the age range of 19-22 years old and reside in Tuscany (72%). 71% (262) of the students were vaccinated against HPV, 23%(85) were unvaccinated and 6%(21) did not remember their vaccination status. Preliminary conclusions. There is further need for promoting knowledge of Human Papilloma Virus and HPV vaccination among young women. Young sexually active girls seemed to be aware of their health status and non-vaccinated woman showed more autonomy in their vaccination choice.