Abstract

Purpose: This study was performed to examine the knowledge of HPV in female university students. Methods: Participants consisted of 285 female university students(nursing major;153, others;132). A dichotomy with 20 items of HPV knowledge was developed by a researcher. Results: Reliability of the HPV knowledge tool was Cronbach' alpha .87, and Split-half Guttman coefficient .85. Correction rates of HPV knowledge by item ranged from 19.6 to 76.8%. There were no significant differences in HPV knowledge scores by major group or sex related characteristics. Conclusions: Accurate, university wide education regarding HPV knowledge for female university students should be done regardless of the major; nursing or not. Replication studies with different ages or sex groups and application of HPV education in relation to STI prevention and cervical cancer prevention are recommended.

Keywords

• Human papilloma virus;
• Sexually transmitted disease;
• Knowledge;
• Education