Dorah Ursula Ramathuba
University of Venda, South Africa
Title: Knowledge of human papilloma virus and HPV vaccine in Thulamela municipality of Vhembe district in Limpopo province
Biography
Biography: Dorah Ursula Ramathuba
Abstract
Background: HPV infections have the potential to cause various adverse health outcomes in males, including genital warts and some types of cancer (anal, penile and oral cancers). HPV concordance levels are high among sexual partners, so infected males also put their female partners at increased risk of cervical disease.
Purpose: The purpose of the study was to assess the knowledge of human papilloma virus and HPV vaccine among rural women in Vhembe district in Limpopo Province.
Methodology: A quantitative descriptive approach was adopted. The quantitative design enabled the discovery of more information by means of direct questioning of a sample of women 30 years and older. A convenience sampling was be used to select the respondents. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Measures to ensure ethical issues were adhered to.
Results: The findings revealed that women lacked knowledge about human papilloma virus and HPV vaccine, and displayed negative attitudes to the use of vaccines if given a pamphlet to let their daughters be immunized. Health workers did not adequately inform women about the availability of the services.
Conclusions: The awareness on human papillomavirus and HPV vaccine among women in Vhembe district is limited. There is a need to educate and promote awareness on cervical cancer screening methods among women in order to reduce the burden of morbidity and mortality.