Original Research Article
Year: 2017 | Month: October | Volume: 7 | Issue: 10 | Pages: 54-59
Qualitative Study Investigating Knowledge Regarding Human Papillomavirus and Evaluation of Risk Factors among Women Attending OPD of Yenepoya Teaching Hospital
Varsha Saxena1, Dr Vidya Pai2, Dr Rajagopal K3
1PhD Scholar, Department of Microbiology, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya University
2Professor and Head, Department of Microbiology, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya University
3Professor and Head, Department of OBG, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya University
Corresponding Author: Dr Vidya Pai
ABSTRACT
Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) mediated cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers among women all over the world. It is estimated that around 75% of sexually active women are infected by this virus. Being most of the genital HPV infections asymptomatic, making its early detection quite impossible. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the awareness of HPV infection and their health effects among women and to establish a causal relationship between HPV mediated cervical cancer and the risk factors associated in acquisition of HPV infection.
Method: In a hospital based study from December 2016 to May 2017, after obtaining Intuitional ethical clearance, total 70 women were enrolled who had given written consent for this study. A validated data collection tool was given to the subjects covering socio-demographic factors, knowledge regarding HPV infection and its health effects. Descriptive analysis was conducted on the information collected in this study using Microsoft Excel.
Results: In this study we have found that women have no knowledge about HPV infection, cervical cancer and associated risk factors. The mean age of participants was 44.8 years. However, literacy rate was found to be 71.4%. Most of the participants belong to the Hindu community.
Conclusion: Therefore, HPV testing should be accompanied by extensive health education to educate women. This study found a lack of awareness regarding such infection and hesitation in discussion.
Key words: Human papillomavirus, Cervical Cancer, Knowledge, Awareness