Knowledge, Attitude and Practice regarding Human Papilloma virus vaccine among Undergraduate Medical Students in Government Medical College Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh: A Cross-Sectional study

Abstract

Background:
Cervical cancer (CC) caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) can be prevented or managed with the help of healthcare professionals, particularly young medical students. However, it is frequently noted that medical students, who provide front-line patient care, have little knowledge about CC and HPV.
Aim & Objective:
The study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine among undergraduate medical students at Government Medical College, Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh, while also assessing their knowledge about cervical cancer to identify gaps.
Materials and Methods
This was a descriptive cross-sectional and institutional-based study conducted at BRLSABVMMC, Rajnandgaon (C.G.), from July to October 2025. Convenience sampling was used. The sample size was 341 students, from all Phase i.e. Phase I, II, III and IV. Data was collected using a validated semi-structured questionnaire distributed via Google Form. Data was analysed using MS-Excel 2007.
Results
The study was conducted among 341 students. Approximately 53.7% of participants were females and 46.3% were males. The majority of students (58%) belong to (21-25 years age group). About 33.7% belong to Phase III. About 92.1% were Hindu. More than 80% of students had sufficient knowledge about the HPV vaccine. In comparison, knowledge regarding cervical cancer and HPV vaccine was poorer in MBBS Phase-I & II students than Phase III & IV students. Only 5.7% student were vaccinated in Govt. Medical College, Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh.
Conclusion
Students reported a good knowledge about Cervical cancer as well as HPV Vaccine but the uptake was very poor i.e. only 5.7%. More work is required to raise medical undergraduates' knowledge of HPV and encourage them to be vaccinated. To have a significant beneficial impact on their acceptance of vaccination as well as their desire to advocate it in the future, targeted health education activities are necessary.