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Lack of Knowledge on HPV Infection Among Active Duty Soldiers in the US Military

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Research conducted by the Epidemiology and Disease Control (EDC) Clinic at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, revealed a significant gap in knowledge about human papillomavirus (HPV) infection among active duty soldiers. The study, published in Military Medicine, aimed to assess the effectiveness of an educational intervention in improving soldiers' knowledge and attitudes towards HPV vaccination. The research found that before the intervention, most soldiers lacked knowledge about HPV infection, its long-term effects, and preventive measures available. However, after receiving education about HPV infection and vaccination, soldiers demonstrated a significant improvement in their knowledge and attitudes towards HPV vaccination.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study involved 139 active duty soldiers at Fort Bragg, who participated in a one-on-one educational intervention conducted by the EDC Clinic nursing staff.
  • The research found that before the intervention, soldiers demonstrated a lack of knowledge regarding HPV infection, its long-term effects, and preventive measures available.
  • The educational intervention was effective in improving soldiers' knowledge and attitudes towards HPV vaccination, with statistically significant changes observed in test scores and percent correct.
  • The results highlighted the importance of education and awareness campaigns in improving knowledge and attitudes towards HPV vaccination among active duty service members.
  • The study's findings suggest that the US military can benefit from implementing HPV vaccination programs to protect its service members from HPV-related diseases.

Statistics:

  • 139 active duty soldiers participated in the study and received the educational intervention.
  • 5 multiple-choice knowledge assessments and 1 Likert scale attitude question were used to evaluate soldiers' knowledge and attitudes towards HPV vaccination.
  • Statistically significant changes in test scores and percent correct were observed after the educational intervention (P < 0.001).
  • The study's results demonstrated a positive impact of education about HPV infection and vaccination on soldiers' knowledge and attitudes towards HPV vaccination.

Sources:

  • Military Medicine, 2022. "Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding Human Papillomavirus Among Active Duty Service Members at a Large Military Base."
  • Oxford University Press (OUP). "Military Medicine".
  • NewsRx. "New Military Medicine Research from Womack Army Medical Center Described (Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding Human Papillomavirus Among Active Duty Service Members at a Large Military Base). Vaccine Weekly. July 27, 2022; p 4129.

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