Addressing Low HPV Vaccine Uptake in Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study of Maternal Knowledge, Perceptions, and Barriers in Akure South, Ondo State

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer remains a significant public health burden in Nigeria, with HPV vaccination being a critical primary prevention strategy. Despite the introduction of the national HPV immunization programme in 2023, uptake remains suboptimal. This study examined the factors influencing acceptance and uptake of HPV vaccines among mothers of teenage girls in Akure South Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. Methods: We used a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. Two hundred and twenty (220) mothers of teenage girls (9–14 years, consistent with Nigeria's National HPV Immunization Programme and WHO recommendations) were selected across 12 political wards using a multistage sampling technique. We collected data using a structured, self-administered questionnaire and analyzed them using descriptive statistics and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation at a 0.05 significance level. Confidence intervals (95%) and effect sizes were reported where appropriate.