Association between maternal knowledge and human papillomavirus immunization uptake among elementary schoolgirls

Abstract

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is a primary strategy for preventing cervical cancer, but school-based coverage may remain suboptimal when parental knowledge is limited. Objective: This study examined the association between maternal knowledge and HPV immunization uptake among grade 5 elementary schoolgirls in the Motoling Barat Public Health Center area. Methods: This analytical observational study used a cross-sectional design involving 69 mothers selected from a target population of 220 mothers. Maternal knowledge was measured using a structured questionnaire and categorized as good, sufficient, or poor. HPV immunization status was classified as vaccinated or not vaccinated. Data were analyzed using frequency distributions and the Chi-square test with alpha = 0.05. Results: Thirty respondents (43.5%) reported that their daughters had received HPV immunization, whereas 39 (56.5%) had not. Most mothers had poor knowledge (42.1%). HPV immunization uptake increased across knowledge categories: 73.3% among mothers with good knowledge, 40.0% among those with sufficient knowledge, and 31.0% among those with poor knowledge. The association between maternal knowledge and HPV immunization uptake was significant (p = 0.003). Conclusion: Maternal knowledge was significantly associated with HPV immunization uptake. Strengthening mother-centered and school-linked health education is recommended to improve HPV vaccine acceptance and coverage.