Evaluation of Knowledge Level on Sexually Transmitted Diseases of Medical School Students Who Received HPV Vaccination

Abstract

Introduction: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can adversely affect sexual and reproductive health, especially starting from ado- lescence, in addition to the mortality and morbidity they cause. Of these, human papilloma virus (HPV) is of great importance because it is very common and can be prevented by vaccination. More widespread vaccination can be achieved by increasing awareness and knowledge, both in society and among physicians. In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the knowledge level of med school students, who had HPV vaccine, about sexually transmitted diseases.Materials and Methods: Socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge levels about sexually transmitted diseases were evaluated by filling out a questionnaire for med school students who were vaccinated in 2022 in our hospital. The dataset were put in Microsoft Office Excel program.Results: Total of 212 participants (169 females 79.7%; 43 males 20.3%, mean age 22.18 +/- 2.15 years) were included in the study. Participants stated that they heard about HPV vaccine; through classes 74.5% (n= 158), friends/family 43.4% (n= 92), and social media/TV 41% (n= 87). They defined the safest contraceptive method for STD as using condoms 68.9%, not having sexual intercourse 18.4%, and monogamy 12.7%. Question about causative relation with cancer development of listed agents answered as: HPV (99.1%), hepatitis B (70.8%), syphilis (6.6%), and Gonorrhea (3.8%).Conclusion: Increasing level of knowledge of young physicians and physician candidates about sexually transmitted diseases will certainly contribute to the awareness and vaccination of society. We believe that being aware of our shortcomings in this regard and reducing sexual health education to a much earlier age, will help solve this issue.