Determinants of Cervical Cancer Knowledge Among Parents/Guardians of Girls Aged 9–14 Years In Irepodun, Osun State, Nigeria.
Abstract
Background: Cervical cancer accounted for an estimated 13,676 new cases and 7,093 deaths in Nigeria in 2023, despite being largely preventable through human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and screening. Parents and guardians play an important role in informed HPV vaccination decisions. This study assessed the level and predictors of cervical cancer knowledge among parents and guardians of girls aged 9–14 years in Irepodun Local Government Area, Osun State, Nigeria. Methods: A community-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 305 parents and guardians selected using multistage sampling. Data were collected using a pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire. Cervical cancer knowledge was assessed using a five-item scale and categorized as poor (0–2) or good (3–5). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Associations were examined using Chi-square tests, followed by multivariable logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Although 55.7% had heard of cervical cancer, only 34.4% demonstrated good knowledge. Educational attainment, occupation, prior awareness, and information source were significantly associated with knowledge at bivariate analysis. After adjustment, respondents with primary (AOR = 8.3; 95% CI: 1.6–42.2), secondary (AOR = 6.0; 95% CI: 1.2–29.3), and tertiary education (AOR = 21.6; 95% CI: 4.0–117.3) had higher odds of good knowledge than those without formal education. Self-employed respondents had lower odds (AOR = 0.4; 95% CI: 0.2–1.0), while those previously aware of cervical cancer had higher odds (AOR = 14.2; 95% CI: 7.0–29.3). Conclusion: Cervical cancer knowledge was low despite moderate awareness. Education and prior awareness were strong predictors of knowledge. Targeted community-based health education should strengthen accurate cervical cancer information, particularly among less-educated and rural populations, to support informed HPV vaccination decisions. Keywords: Cervical cancer; Knowledge; Parents; Determinants; Girls; Nigeria