EVALUATION OF THE IMPACT OF A LECTURE ON HPV IMMUNIZATION IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS FOR GUARDIANS AT A PUBLIC SCHOOL IN SALVADOR

Abstract

Introduction: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world, with vaccination being an effective and available method of prevention. Therefore, education to encourage vaccination of children and adolescents is essential, and lectures in schools can serve as a way to raise awareness among parents and guardians. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of a lecture on HPV immunization in children and adolescents for parents and guardians at a public school in Salvador. Methods: The study was conducted in a public school in Salvador, based on an extension project, with a convenience sample, using questionnaires on knowledge of vaccination and HPV STIs, administered before and after the lecture to 65 parents and guardians. In addition to handing out brochures for more information, the data were analyzed in Google Sheets. Results: Most participants were responsible for 4th grade elementary school students, aged between 30 and 50 years, mothers, and mostly with a high school education. Before the lecture, the average responses ranged from 4.03 to 4.67, with a median of 5.0 for most questions and standard deviations between 0.82 and 1.32. After the intervention, the averages increased in almost all questions, ranging from 4.39 to 4.78, with all median values at 5 and lower standard deviations (0.60 to 1.10), indicating greater consistency in the responses. The greatest variation was observed in question 4, with an increase of 0.73 points (18.09%). Only question 11 showed a slight decrease in the mean (-0.03). The graphical representation showed the overall increase in means after the educational action. Conclusion: The educational lecture on HPV vaccination given to parents at a public school in Salvador proved effective in expanding knowledge and changing attitudes. The initiative reinforces the potential of school educational actions in addressing vaccine hesitancy.