Authors : Blessing Edward Sa’aku, Lois Nnenna Omaka-Amari, Michael Anene Agu, Ukamaka Perpetua Ugwu and Uchenna Cosmas Ugwu
Abstract: Human Papilloma Virus HPV is a major aetiological agent causing Cervical Cancer CCa with very high mortality rate, particularly, in developing regions. This study investigated the status of awareness about HPV as a risk factor for CCa occurrences by female Nigerian undergraduates and further verified the null hypothesis of no significant differences within variables. The study was based on descriptive research approach and was conducted in five universities in Southeast part of Nigeria from November 2017 to April 2018. A sample size of 420 female undergraduates was studied. The participants, aged 15-26 years were on regular undergraduate programme. The questionnaire was the only instrument used for data collection. Statistical Package for Social Science Version 21 was used for data analysis. Overall, 420 female Nigerian undergraduates received a copy of the questionnaire. Of them, a total of 400 (96%) copies were properly completed and used for data analysis. Majority of the participants were from Faculty of Education 200 (50%), aged 20-24 years 240 (60%) and christians 280 (70%). About 100 (25%) participants indicated been in their second year of study. Only few participants (35%) were aware about HPV as a risk factor for CCa while majority (65%) were not. The participant’s status of awareness varied within variables. A statistically significant difference was observed with regards to faculty, age and year of study (p>0.05) while none existed on religion (p<0.05). There was definite lack of awareness about HPV as a risk factor for CCa by the female undergraduates and thus, might adversely affect HPV vaccine acceptance. The Federal government in collaboration with all the health sectors as well as non-government organisations should increase efforts on public health awareness and enlightenment HPV and its vaccine acceptance.
Blessing Edward Sa’aku, Lois Nnenna Omaka-Amari, Michael Anene Agu, Ukamaka Perpetua Ugwu and Uchenna Cosmas Ugwu, 2019. Awareness about Human Papillomavirus as a Risk Factor for Cervical Cancer Occurrences by Female Nigerian Undergraduates. Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 14: 4231-4234.