Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection and Vaccines:Ottawa University Students’ Knowledge, Awareness and Vaccine Intentions

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection and Vaccines:Ottawa University Students Knowledge, Awareness and Vaccine Intentions

Objective: The objective of this qualitative study was to assess young adults’ awareness of human papillomavirus (HPV) and associated health problems, mechanisms of HPV prevention, perceived personal risk of infection and awareness of HPV vaccines.

Method: Twenty undergraduate students, eleven women and nine men, were interviewed about HPV and HPV vaccine awareness in Ottawa, Canada, 2008. Interviews were transcribed and coded to identify major topical themes.