Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part B (2025)

Background: Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among women in India. Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types is the primary cause of cervical cancer, yet awareness and uptake of HPV vaccination among adolescents remain low, especially in rural communities.

Objectives: To compare knowledge and awareness, attitudes, willingness, and perceived barriers regarding HPV infection and vaccination among urban and rural secondary school girls in Bengaluru, India.

Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted in August 2024 among 200 secondary school girls (classes 7^th-10^th), with equal representation from urban and rural areas. Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested questionnaire assessing demographics, knowledge of cervical cancer and HPV, attitude toward HPV vaccination, willingness to vaccinate, and perceived barriers. Following a health education session and group discussions, post-intervention assessments were completed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.

Results: Urban participants demonstrated significantly higher knowledge of HPV and its vaccine (50% good knowledge) compared to rural participants (4% good knowledge; p<0.0001). Positive attitudes toward HPV vaccination were reported by 43% of urban girls and only 4% of rural girls (p<0.0001). Willingness to receive the vaccine was low overall, with only 5% of urban participants and none of the rural participants expressing willingness (p = 0.029). The most frequently cited barriers among rural girls included lack of awareness (52%), and concerns about side effects or social stigma, all significantly higher than in the urban group.

Conclusion: Substantial disparities exist between urban and rural secondary school girls in HPV knowledge, attitudes, and vaccine acceptance. Addressing these gaps through targeted educational interventions, community engagement, and removal of financial barriers is essential to improve HPV vaccine uptake and reduce the burden of cervical cancer in India.