The Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) Regarding Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Among Women in Karachi, Pakistan

Background: The burden of STIs in Pakistan is much larger than reported. Various research studies indicate that the knowledge of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) in the women is low. The objective of this study is to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practice regarding STIs, HPV and sexual behaviors of contraceptive practice among women in Karachi, Pakistan. Methods: The current study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Karachi from Aug 2014- Aug 2015, including 600 women (aged 19-50 years) by convenience sampling technique from waiting areas of out-patient clinics. Results: The mean age of participants was 39.5 ± 10.7 years. Eighty eight percent women (n = 529) were married, 8% (n = 50) female were unmarried and around 3% (n = 19) female were divorced, separated or widowed. Participants with no knowledge about STIs and viruses causing some cancers were 57% (n = 341) and 70% (n = 418) respectively. There was no knowledge about Pap smear in 80% (n = 479) of study population and the proportion of women not attending the annual gynecological examination were 88% (n = 525). Vaccine acceptability was found to be as low as 38% (n = 225). A similar trend 12% (n = 71) was seen in the response about willing to pay by themselves for the vaccination cost. Conclusion: The current study highlights inadequate knowledge about STDS, HPV, cervical cancer and its screening among women. Public health awareness programs should be raised at community level in order to increase the health seeking behavior of women.