Knowledge, attitude, and practice toward Human Papillomavirus among the population in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding human papillomavirus (HPV) among women living in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 273 female residents of Jeddah using a validated, self-administered online questionnaire. The survey captured sociodemographic data along with measures of HPV-related KAP. Results: Participants had a mean age of 28.03 ± 9.94 years. The majority were university educated (69%), unmarried (76%), and Saudi (83%). Only 43% had prior knowledge of HPV, and 35% understood its association with cervical cancer. Overall knowledge levels were low, particularly concerning transmission routes and clinical manifestations. While attitude toward HPV prevention were generally positive, concerns about vaccine safety and cultural norms contributed to hesitancy. Knowledge items loaded significantly on Factor 1, with attitude and practice aligning with Factors 2 and 3, respectively (loading ≥ 0.3). Higher knowledge was significantly associated with more positive attitudes, which, in turn, were associated with better preventive practice. The questionnaire demonstrated strong reliability. Conclusion: The study revealed inadequate awareness of HPV among women in Jeddah, emphasizing the need for focused health education initiatives to enhance understanding, dispel misconceptions, and encourage vaccine acceptance.