부산대학교 도서관

Background: Cervical cancer is completely curable and preventable. It stands second among cancers in women in our country. Cervical cancer in India contributes to 23% of global incidence and 22% of global mortality. Nearly 76.7% of cervical cancer in India is contributed by 16 and 18 HPV serotypes. Cervical cancer is one such disease that can cause mortality but is vaccine preventable.Purpose: This study was undertaken to assess the role of intervention in the form of health education on awareness of HPV vaccination given to pregnant women in their third trimester, asses the acceptance levels of the first dose and compliance to subsequent doses of HPV vaccination in postpartum women and also to enumerate reasons for non-vaccination.Methods: Pregnant women in the third trimester nearing to delivery, not taken HPV vaccination, coming for ANC check-ups to the OPDs of tertiary Medical College Hospitals, Bengaluru, were given pre-test and health education to assess the knowledge of cervical cancer and HPV vaccination followed by counseling. Post-tests were given post-delivery. Participants willing for HPV vaccination were given the first dose before discharge and subsequent doses during the follow-up period.Results: In the baseline survey, 38.7% were aware of cervical cancer. 20.68% knew that HPV was the main cause for cervical cancer. 5.33% were aware of HPV vaccination. After the health education, 93.33% became aware of cervical cancer and 97.33% of HPV vaccination. 90% came to know that HPV is the main cause for cervical cancer. After the educational intervention, 70% received first dose HPV vaccination before discharge in puerperium. 86.63% women completed all 3 series of HPV vaccination, and 94.5% felt it was worthwhile to receive the vaccine during puerperium. Among 30% who were not willing for vaccination; 46.66% cited high cost and 22.22% were not allowed by the family members.Conclusion: Health education played a major role in increasing the awareness of cervical cancer and HPV vaccination. Recommendations from the physician and healthcare personals also showed high level of acceptance for the HPV vaccination in postpartum women.