Knowledge and attitudes about human papillomavirus, Pap smears, and cervical cancer among young women in Brazil: implications for health education and prevention

Abstract

The objective of the study was to assess knowledge and attitudes about human papillomavirus (HPV), cervical cancer, and Papanicolaou (Pap) smears among young women. A questionnaire was administered to 204 women aged 16-23 years, attending a public clinic. Data were gathered on sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, and attitudes related to HPV. Overall, 92% of women reported current/previous sexual activity, 42% perceived themselves at high risk of acquiring a sexually transmitted disease, 67% did not know that HPV can cause cervical cancer/warts, and only 10% acknowledged that HPV might lead to cervical cancer. In general, women had a poor knowledge on HPV diagnosis/treatment, condyloma signs, and Pap smear test. The main reasons for not having a Pap smear test done before were embarrassment (63%) and fear of pain (61%). Knowledge of HPV infection and cervical cancer was low in this urban young population. Our findings recommend for greater HPV education of the public and health care practitioners.