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Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer, primarily caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, remains a major public health concern in India, particularly in rural regions. Despite the availability of preventive vaccines such as Cervavac, uptake among healthcare professionals—key advocates for public health—has been suboptimal. This study aims to assess the awareness, knowledge, and acceptance of HPV vaccination among healthcare workers in rural Haryana.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and March 2025 involving 160 healthcare professionals, including medical, nursing, and paramedical staff aged 18–45 years, from rural health centers in Haryana. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire covering demographics, HPV awareness, vaccination status, and attitudes toward vaccination. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were employed for analysis.
Results: The mean age of participants was 25.2 years, with a female majority (67%). While 95% of respondents were aware of the HPV vaccine and its role in preventing cervical cancer, only 16% had received vaccination. Among those aware, just 17% were vaccinated, highlighting a gap between knowledge and action. The most common barriers cited were limited availability (16%), cost concerns (5%), and lack of conviction (6%). Awareness levels were high across educational levels, but vaccination rates remained low, underscoring the need for targeted interventions.
Conclusion: Despite high awareness, HPV vaccination uptake among healthcare workers in rural Haryana is limited. Addressing practical barriers through affordable vaccine programs and strengthening advocacy among healthcare professionals is critical to enhancing HPV vaccine coverage and reducing cervical cancer burden in rural India.