Level of knowledge on the human papilloma virus among adolescents

Abstract

The human papilloma virus, a sexually transmitted infection with a high likelihood of contagion among young and adult populations, is the main cervical- uterine cancer causing factor linked to early initiation of sexual intercourse.
Objective: To determine the level of knowledge on the topic among adolescents in one high school.
Methods: This is a transversal and descriptive study with a sample of 242 students of both sexes. An instrument with 42 items grouped in four sections: social-demographic data, knowledge on the human papilloma virus, issues on sexual health, and sources of information was applied. The reliability level was estimated at 0.7.
Results: From the sample, 53.7% were women, 40.5% were 17 years old, and 91.1% were single. Sixty four point six percent did not identify the virus, 68.6% did not know about the illnesses the virus can provoke, and 88% did not know that smoking can predispose women towards a greater risk of acquiring the virus. From the sample, 78.5% identified the principal risk factor, and 82.6% were aware of the best protection against infection. The general level of knowledge was low in 80% of the participants.
Conclusions: The lack of knowledge on the issue can lead to risky lifestyles such as having multiple sexual partners or nor using the condoms accordingly.