BACKGROUND: The human papillomavirus is associated with 99.7 percent of all cases of cervical cancer. In 2006, the HPV vaccine was launched with the intention of preventing cervical cancer.
OBJECTIVE: To compare the knowledge, attitudes and practices of clinicians from different subspecialties regarding the human papillomavirus vaccine.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Questionnaire were distributed and answered by consultants from the Department of Obstetrics, Family Medicine and Pediatrics.
RESULTS: A response rate of of 68% was obtained. Respondents attained the highest scores on questions regarding HPV and HPV infection. The lowest scores were on the HPV vaccine, brands available and dosing schedule. Majority agreed that vaccine recommendation will facilitate introduction of the vaccine to their practice. However, concerns regarding issues of sexuality and encouragement of high risk sexual behavior especially in younger adolescents were deemed obstacle to vaccine acceptance. Majority will also recommend the vaccine and were willing to administer the vaccine to a family member.
CONCLUSION: There was no statistical difference among the scores of clinicians from the three departments implying that basic knowledge regarding HPV were similar. Most believe that the recommendation of a higher society will help promote the vaccine. Majority also recognized adolescent autonomy. Issues of sexuality were deemed important and should be discussed among parents, physicians and if applicable, the patient. Studies investigating the long term social impact of the HPV vaccine are needed to validate attitudes regarding the vaccine. Information campaigns should be initiated to disseminate facts about HPV vaccine and to dispel misconceptions which could interfere with its acceptablity.