Factors influencing acceptance of human papillomavirus vaccine among young female college students in Thailand.
OBJECTIVE
To determine knowledge and beliefs related to human papillomavirus (HPV), cervical cancer, and vaccination among young Thai women, and thereby identify independent predictors associated with acceptance of HPV vaccination.


METHODS
A convenience sample of 747 young women aged 18-24 years was recruited from universities and colleges located in the upper northern region of Thailand. An online questionnaire was performed to assess demographics; HPV and cervical cancer-related health characteristics; and knowledge and beliefs toward HPV and cervical cancer. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine independent predictors of HPV vaccine acceptance.


RESULTS
Knowledge about HPV and cervical cancer was moderate. The mean total knowledge score was 7.5 ± 3.8. Acceptance of the HPV vaccine was significantly associated with having received a recommendation for vaccination (odds ratio [OR] 2.12; 95% CI, 1.22-3.68); perceived susceptibility to disease (OR 1.37; 95% CI, 1.22-1.52); perceived benefits of vaccination (OR 1.33; 95% CI, 1.19-1.49); and perceived seriousness of disease (OR 0.90; 95% CI, 0.81-1.00).


CONCLUSIONS
Understanding variables associated with acceptance of HPV vaccination may guide immunization initiatives and so increase the uptake rate among young Thai women.
Faculty of Nursing, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand. phanida.j@cmu.ac.th
Phanida
P
Juntasopeepun
Natthawan
N
Suwan
Yupin
Y
Phianmongkhol
Jatupol
J
Srisomboon
D000293:Adolescent; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D030361:Papillomavirus Infections / Q000517:prevention & control*; D053918:Papillomavirus Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000523:psychology*; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013334:Students; D013785:Thailand; D002583:Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000821:virology; D055815:Young Adult
D053918:Papillomavirus Vaccines