Awareness and Acceptability of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine among Mothers of Adolescent Girls in Nguluni Health Centre, Matungulu, Machakos County, Kenya

Abstract

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection and is known as the major cause of cervical cancer. Despite the availability of a relevant vaccine in Kenya since 2006, its acceptability has remained low due to high cost, opposition, myths, and misconceptions. This study assessed awareness and acceptability of the Human Papillomavirus vaccine among mothers of adolescent girls in Machakos County, Kenya. It explored their perceptions regarding barriers and facilitators to vaccine uptake. A mixed-method approach with a convergent design and consecutive sampling was adopted. 220 respondents were recruited for the quantitative study. For the qualitative study, 11 were interviewed after the sampled number reached saturation. Findings reported a higher level of awareness (77.3%) with an acceptability rate of 54.1%. Factors such as ever having heard of the HPV vaccine, vaccine safety and effectiveness, awareness of cervical cancer and their association with HPV vaccine acceptability were assessed. Qualitative data indicated mothers had deep-seated concerns and fears, which influenced their perceptions and beliefs on vaccine acceptance. Barriers included a lack of awareness, fears of side effects, misconceptions, and communication breakdown. Facilitators included education, sensitization, and affirmation of the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness to improve vaccine acceptability. A community-based study that included all women in the study area would have minimized bias and improved the dissemination, credibility, validity, uptake, and implementation of our findings. However, this was not possible because of financial and time constraints. A multifaceted approach to address the identified gaps is necessary, along with investing in awareness campaigns to improve knowledge and promote acceptance of HPV vaccination. This study provides valuable insights and will guide efforts to increase the acceptability of HPV vaccination in Kenya and beyond.