Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
Abstract
Cervical cancer is a major public health problem globally, largely preventable through regular Pap smear testing and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination. This study assesses the awareness of Pap smear and HPV vaccination among girls and women visiting the outpatient department (OPD) of a tertiary care hospital. This crosssectional study involved 200 female participants aged 14‐45 who visited the OPD. Data were collected through structured questionnaires addressing awareness and understanding of Pap smear tests and HPV vaccination. Descriptive statistics and chi‐square tests were used for data analysis. The study found that 76.5% of participants had heard of Pap smear tests and 59% were aware of the HPV vaccine. However, a deeper understanding of the purpose of Pap smear and HPV vaccination was considerably lower, at 51% and 43.5% respectively. Awareness levels were significantly associated with educational level (p<0.001), marital status (p=0.004), economic status (p<0.001) and urban/rural residence (p=0.012). While a majority of participants are aware of Pap smear tests and HPV vaccines, there is a significant gap in comprehensive knowledge about their purposes and benefits, underscoring the need for enhanced educational interventions. The study highlights the influence of sociodemographic factors on health awareness and suggests targeting these factors in future public health campaigns.
How to cite this article:
Mahendra Walwekar, Anil Sakhare and Shailesh Vaidya. Awareness of Pap Smear and HPV Vaccine Among Girls and Women Visiting OPD: A Cross‐Sectional Study.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makrjms.2025.1.282.286
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.36478/makrjms.2025.1.282.286