Awareness of HPV-related cancers and the HPV vaccination programme in Scotland : a cross-sectional study of gender, deprivation and knowledge gaps

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Nguyen-Thanh, Huyen and Marshall, Leah and Wilson, Hannah and Stewart, Kirsty and Kavanagh, Kimberley and Sorensen, Annette (2025) Awareness of HPV-related cancers and the HPV vaccination programme in Scotland : a cross-sectional study of gender, deprivation and knowledge gaps. Journal of Public Health (United Kingdom). ISSN 1741-3842 (https://doi.org/10.1093/pubmed/fdaf136)

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Abstract

Background: Scotland’s human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme includes boys, yet awareness of male-associated cancers and eligibility remains unclear. Awareness may differ by gender and socioeconomic status, contributing to inequalities and declining uptake. This study assessed knowledge of HPV, HPV-related cancers and the vaccination programme. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey (n = 1052) was conducted in 2023. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression explored gender- and deprivation-related differences in awareness of HPV, HPV-related cancers and the vaccination programme. Results: Overall, 80.6% had heard of HPV, with higher awareness among females (89.2%) than males (67.3%, P < .001) and in less deprived areas (88.8% vs. 79.8%, P = .004). Cervical cancer was recognized (78.9% females, 54.8% males), while awareness of non-cervical cancers was low, especially oropharyngeal (92%). Conclusions: Awareness of male HPV-related cancers and the boys’ vaccination programme remains limited, with gender and socioeconomic disparities. A ‘knowledge-action gap’ was evident, with support despite poor understanding. Targeted, inclusive education is needed to reduce inequalities and sustain confidence.

ORCID iDs

Nguyen-Thanh, Huyen, Marshall, Leah, Wilson, Hannah, Stewart, Kirsty, Kavanagh, Kimberley ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2679-5409 and Sorensen, Annette ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1861-7258;
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)