Knowledge of the human papillomavirus and cervical cancer among Hmong female college-aged students
Author(s):
Khang, Leepao
Format:
Thesis
Degree granted:
M.P.H.
Publisher:
Ann Arbor : California State University, Fresno, 2009.
Pages:
77
Language:
English
Abstract:
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among college-aged students in the United States. It is clearly understood that several strands of HPV are the main causes of cervical cancer. The burden of this disease is heavy among Southeast Asian women such as the Hmong. The purpose of this study was to examine Hmong female college students' knowledge and perceptions of susceptibility of infection for HPV and cervical cancer. A convenience sample of 131 Hmong females attending California State University, Fresno participated in the study. The majority were freshmen (35.9%) and sophomores (26.7%), and were single. Results from this study indicate knowledge deficit regarding HPV, cervical cancer, and Pap tests. Only 13.7%, 7.6%, and 5% of the participants had high knowledge level for HPV, cervical cancer, and Pap tests, respectively. Married and older females had higher knowledge on the subject compared to single and younger females. There was also a significant difference between college level and knowledge level among the sample. This study provides a vital first glance into the Hmong college-aged population that has not been studied. An educational intervention that incorporates the Health Belief Model to educate Hmong females is a priority.