Archives of Hellenic Medicine

Last update:

15-Jul-2010

Arch Hellen Med, 27(3), May-June 2010, 522-528

ORIGINAL PAPER

HPV vaccination acceptance among women in Greek provincial areas

Ε. GESOULI-VOLTYRAKI,¹ Ε. ΤSETSEKOU,² C. ΜARNERAS,³ Κ. ΚRAPIS,⁴ Α. ΥFANTIS,⁵ Μ. VOULA¹¹Faculty of Nursing, Technological Educational Institution of Lamia, Lamia,
²Health Center of Aliartos, Aliartos,
³University Hospital of Patras, Rio, Patras,
⁴General Hospital of Larissa, Larissa,
⁵Technological Educational Institution of Lamia, Lamia, Greece

OBJECTIVE To investigate the acceptance of human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination by women in Greek provincial areas.

METHOD One hundred adult women in outpatient settings, aged 18-65 years were included in the study. A questionnaire with closed-type questions regarding the willingness of women to accept the HPV vaccine and to consent to having their children vaccinated was used.

RESULTS Seventy three percent of the sample reported willingness to accept the HPV vaccine and 62% expressed consent to having their children vaccinated. Fear of side effects, lack of information and scepticism over the etiology of cancer were the main causes of denial. The cost of the vaccine was considered as a significant barrier. Women in urban areas were statistically more willing to have their sons vaccinated for the protection of future sexual partners. Most women stated they would prefer a gynecologist to vaccinate them or their children.

CONCLUSIONS Most women in the provincial sample expressed acceptability regarding HPV vaccination. An information campaign, especially in rural areas, is necessary, and cost reduction should be examined.

Key words: Cervical cancer, HPV, Vaccination, Women.