KNOWLEDGE ABOUT HPV AND THE VACCINE AGAINST THIS VIRUS: CONTRIBUTIONS OF AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A HEALTH EDUCATION TOOL

Abstract

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a highly prevalent virus that can cause anogenital warts and cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, penis, anus, and oropharynx. In addition to condom use, vaccination is a key prevention strategy. The quadrivalent vaccine is provided by the Ministry of Health nationwide. However, vaccine adherence has been challenging, with a lack of information being one of the main reasons for low uptake. Health education, especially in schools, plays a crucial role in raising awareness about HPV and the importance of vaccination. The School Health Program and the use of Educational Health Technologies (EHT) are important tools in this process.The aim of this review was to identify, through the literature, the priority knowledge areas for health education to increase adherence to the HPV vaccine. An integrative literature review was conducted using a specific methodology. Seven articles were selected for analysis, addressing knowledge about HPV and the HPV vaccine in different populations. The findings highlighted that health education is essential in fostering positive attitudes toward vaccination. Therefore, adequate knowledge about HPV, its risks, and the importance of vaccination is crucial to improving vaccine uptake. This information should be incorporated into health education strategies using accessible and audience-appropriate language.

Keywords: HPV. HPV vaccine. Knowledge. Educational technology.