[HPV vaccine acceptability and knowledge among university students].

Objective

Persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection can cause anogenital and oropharyngeal cancers. In France, HPV vaccination is recommended for children aged 11 to 14, with a catch-up campaign recently extended up to age 26. In Réunion, vaccination coverage remains insufficient despite national recommendations. Vaccinating adult students, who are autonomous in their decisions and no longer require parental consent, could serve as a lever to increase vaccination rates. The primary objective of this study was to assess the acceptability of HPV vaccination among students at the University of Réunion.

Methods

A cross-sectional descriptive observational study was conducted from January 13 to January 29, 2026, using an anonymous self-administered online questionnaire. Students from different university campuses were included.

Results

Among 725 recorded connections, 714 students were included and 474 fully completed the questionnaire. The mean age was 21.0 ± 4.3 years. The overall vaccine acceptability rate was 61.3%. Knowledge appeared limited, with a mean transmission score of 1.9 ± 1.1 out of 4 on questions concerning transmission of the virus. Non-vaccinated students were more frequently scholarship recipients (p = 0.033), and 46.9% reported willingness to be vaccinated.

Conclusion

In the context of catch-up vaccination extended up to 26 years, targeted university-based interventions could improve vaccination coverage in this insular territory.