Conocimiento, actitudes y prácticas sobre prevención del virus del papiloma humano en estudiantes de medicina de la Universidad Católica de Cuenca sede Azogues. Ecuador. 2024- 2025

Abstract

Background: HPV has become a global problem due to an increase in its prevalence; according to WHO data, there is evidence of an increase in cases among individuals with multiple sexual partners. Objective: To analyze the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding HPV prevention among medical students at the Catholic University of Cuenca, Azogues Campus, Ecuador. 2024–2025. Methodology: The study employs a non-experimental, quantitative, descriptive, and prospective cross-sectional observational design. It was conducted among medical students at the Azogues campus of the Catholic University of Cuenca, involving 1,412 students. The sample consisted of 304 students, with a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error. Results: The majority of the students demonstrated a high level of knowledge, as they were enrolled in a health-related program. Furthermore, it was found that most respondents had appropriate attitudes regarding disease prevention; in practice, because they are familiar with the virus and understand how it is transmitted, they act in a way that promotes prevention and helps prevent its further spread. Conclusions and relevance: A high level of knowledge was determined among the students, and their attitudes were found to be appropriate. Regarding sexual practices, participants reported beginning sexual activity between the ages of 14 and 25 while using some type of contraceptive method; the majority reported not having multiple sexual partners, indicating that their practices are appropriate. Keywords: human papillomavirus, prevention, knowledge, attitudes