Knowledge, Vaccine Uptake, and Barriers to Human Papillomavirus Vaccination in a Primary Healthcare Centre in Maiduguri: A Cross-sectional Study

Nelson Lola*, Badiya Abbas Tarfa, Hamina Dathini, Robert Teriyella Kever, Haruna Habu

Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria.

*Corresponding author’s Email: nelsonlola@unimaid.edu.ng, doi.org/10.55639/607.020100109


ABSTRACT

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a major public health concern and a leading cause of cervical cancer, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Despite the proven safety and effectiveness of the HPV vaccine, uptake remains low in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria. Borno State, affected by prolonged conflict and weak health infrastructure, presents unique challenges to vaccine utilization. This study assessed the knowledge, utilization, and barriers to HPV vaccine uptake among mothers in Gwange PHC, Maiduguri. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among mothers attending PHC Gwange Ward, Maiduguri. Using a census sampling technique, all eligible mothers with female children aged 9–14 years were invited to participate. Data were collected using a structured, validated questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge HPV vaccine, utilization and perceived barriers. A total of 98 completed questionnaires were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were used to summarize the data. The findings revealed a moderate level of knowledge of HPV and its vaccine among respondents, with 66.3% having heard of HPV and 62.2% aware of the HPV vaccine. However, only 30.6% reported that their daughters had received the HPV vaccine, indicating low utilization. Although uptake was low, 61.2% of mothers expressed willingness to vaccinate their daughters in the future and as well recommend to other mothers to vaccinate their daughter. Major perceived barriers were fear of side effects, poor access to vaccination services, consulting husband, misinformation, and inconsistent vaccine supply. In conclusion, HPV vaccine utilization among mothers in Gwange remains low despite moderate knowledge and willingness to vaccinate. Enhancing health education, strengthening healthcare provider advocacy, addressing misinformation, and consistent vaccine availability are essential to improving HPV vaccine uptake and advancing cervical cancer prevention efforts in conflict-affected settings.

KEYWORDS

Human
Papillomavirus,
Vaccine,
Mothers,
Girl-child.

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