Conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas sobre el virus del papiloma humano en estudiantes de primer y segundo ciclo de la carrera de medicina Universidad de Cuenca año 2024

Abstract

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a highly common sexually transmitted disease that represents a threat to public health. Is necessary to evaluate the level of knowledge, attitudes and practices related to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) among first and second cycle students of the Medicine degree at the University of Cuenca in the year 2024. This is a study with descriptive cross-sectional design with quantitative approach. The sample consisted of 181 students selected through simple random sampling. Data collection was carried out using a validated questionnaire, which evaluated general characteristics and areas of knowledge, attitudes and practices about HPV. The sample was mainly composed of female students (69.6%) and young people aged 18-19 years (84.5%). 64.1% had no sexual activity and 45.3% began their sexual life between 16 and 20 years old. 96.1% knew what HPV is, but only 11.6% knew the types of HPV. 32.6% had an active sexual life and 52.5% had received the vaccine, although only 7.7% completed all three doses. 35.4% always used a condom and 43.6% maintained a monogamous relationship. Only 3.3% of sexually active women had had a Pap smear. Given a positive HPV diagnosis, 69.6% would seek help from a gynecologist. As a conclusion, first and second cycle medical students showed an adequate level of knowledge about HPV and positive attitudes towards its prevention and treatment. However, it is necessary to improve preventive and screening practices