Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Status and Its Predictors Among Medical Students

Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination status of medical students and the factors influencing it. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among students enrolled in the Faculty of Medicine at XXX University during the 2024–2025 academic year. A total of 1,179 completed responses were obtained. In addition to assessing participants’ HPV vaccination status, the study included the HPV Knowledge Scale (HPV-KS), the Health Belief Model Scale for HPV and Vaccination (HPV-HBMS), and various sociodemographic variables. Results: The HPV vaccination rate among the participants was 5.9%. Backward logistic regression analysis identified several significant independent predictors of HPV vaccination. Being female increased the likelihood of vaccination by 5.56 times compared to males (p < 0.001). Regular medication use was associated with 2.04 times higher odds (p = 0.031). Having a mother employed as a healthcare worker increased the odds by 2.25 times (p = 0.024). A positive perception of family economic status was associated with a 1.90 times higher likelihood compared to an average or poor perception (p = 0.021). A family history of cervical cancer increased the odds by 4.58 times (p = 0.001). Having a boyfriend or girlfriend was associated with 1.92 times higher odds (p = 0.018). Additionally, each one-point increase in knowledge about the current HPV vaccination program increased the likelihood of vaccination by 1.43 times. Conclusion: Although medical students have easy access to health-related information, the low HPV vaccination rate suggests that factors beyond knowledge—such as attitudes and beliefs—also play a critical role. Therefore, comprehensive educational programs that address not only knowledge but also health beliefs and attitudes should be implemented in medical schools.