“I Don’t Think I Have a Chance to Get It”: International University Student HPV Knowledge and Preventive Behaviors
Document Type
Article
Abstract
Objective: Half of new human papilloma virus ((HPV)) infections occur between the ages of 15 and 24. As preventive measures are underutilized globally; international university students are at particular risk for HPV infection and sequelae. The study aim was to explore HPV knowledge and preventive behaviors in this population. Participants: Eighty-one undergraduate and graduate international university students (49 females, 32 males) at a southeastern university. Methods: Exploratory sequential mixed methods guided by the Health Belief Model. Results: Integrated qualitative/quantitative data revealed four themes mapped to relevant HBM constructs: Perceived susceptibility to HPV; Perceived benefits/Perceived barriers to HPV prevention; Cues to Action; and Likelihood of Engaging in Health-Promoting Behavior. Over half believed they were not at risk for HPV/sequelae. Only a quarter had received HPV vaccination. Conclusions: International university students represent an important catch-up population for HPV screening/vaccination. Results can be used to design and tailor interventions for this vulnerable population.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Publication Info
Published in Journal of American College Health, Volume 70, Issue 1, 2022, pages 240-247.
APA Citation
Nkwonta, C. A., Dawson, R. M., & Adegboyega, A. (2020). “I don’t think I have a chance to get it”: International university student HPV knowledge and preventive behaviors. Journal of American College Health. https://doi.org/10.1080/07448481.2020.1740232
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