Knowledge, attitude, and perception of the parents toward HPV vaccine administration to their children in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study

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Background Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a major culprit of infection-related cancer globally. In Saudi Arabia, HPV vaccine was recently introduced. We assessed the knowledge, attitude, and perception of parents in Saudi Arabia toward HPV vaccine uptake. Methods In this survey-based cross-sectional study, eligible participants (parents of girls or boys aged 9–14 years) were interviewed in-person. The survey was divided into sections: demographics, HPV infection and HPV vaccination knowledge, vaccine acceptance in general, and HPV vaccine acceptance. Results Of 386 participants, 65.5% were fathers, 44.6% were aged 30–39 years, and 78% held at least a college degree. Knowledge regarding HPV risk and its transmission was overall low. While 64% have heard of HPV infection, 56% expressed their willingness to vaccinate their children against it. Perception of HPV infection risk to others was the only factor associated with HPV vaccine uptake acceptability (OR, 2.49; 95%CI, 1.37–4.52; p = 0.003). Lack of information (15.1%) and fear of side effects (13.6%) were stated by participants unwilling to vaccinate their children. Social media/internet was the major information source for those who had heard of HPV. However, many participants wanted to learn about HPV from healthcare providers. Conclusion This study showed lack of knowledge by the public in Saudi Arabia regarding HPV infection and its associated risks, which may have been associated with hesitancy to vaccinate their children. Healthcare providers are encouraged to educate their patients and the public about HPV and the importance of the vaccine in media outlets and in their practice.

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