Knowledge, attitudes, and professional practices of healthcare workers regarding human papillomavirus vaccination in Elbasan, Albania
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection remains a major public health concern worldwide due to its well-established role in the development of cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. Healthcare professionals play a critical role in promoting HPV vaccination, delivering accurate information, and addressing vaccine-related concerns among patients. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and professional practices of healthcare workers regarding HPV infection and vaccination, as well as to examine factors associated with HPV-related knowledge and vaccine recommendation practices. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 114 healthcare professionals working in primary healthcare centers and hospital settings in Elbasan, Albania. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering knowledge of HPV infection and cervical cancer, vaccination practices, patient education, and perceived communication barriers. Descriptive statistics and Fisher’s Exact Test or chi-square analyses were applied to evaluate associations between professional characteristics and HPV-related knowledge and practices, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Overall, participants demonstrated generally adequate knowledge regarding HPV transmission, high-risk HPV types 16 and 18, and the role of HPV vaccination in cervical cancer prevention. However, important knowledge gaps were identified, particularly regarding HPV vaccine effectiveness after infection and misconceptions about vaccine indications. Specifically, only 36% of participants correctly identified that the HPV vaccine does not provide protection after infection, while 34.2% reported incorrect beliefs and 28.9% were uncertain. Healthcare professionals reported high levels of vaccine recommendation practice, with 74.8% indicating frequent recommendation. Significant associations were observed between professional role and attitudes toward responsibility for HPV education (p = 0.067, trend-level) and vaccine recommendation practices (p = 0.119, not statistically significant). Healthcare setting was strongly associated with knowledge of vaccination target groups, recommended age, and patient concerns. Patient-related concerns most frequently involved vaccine safety and effectiveness, while the most common barriers to communication were discomfort in discussing sexual health and sociocultural sensitivity. Concerns about vaccine safety (50.9%) and effectiveness (31.6%) were the most frequently reported issues encountered in clinical interactions. Overall, although healthcare workers demonstrated generally positive attitudes and satisfactory knowledge, persistent gaps in specific vaccine-related knowledge and communication practices highlight the need for targeted continuing education and standardized training programs to strengthen HPV vaccine advocacy and patient counseling.