Understanding Men’s Perceptions of Human Papillomavirus and Cervical Cancer Screening in Kampala, Uganda

Abstract

Purpose: This preliminary study explores Ugandan men’s knowledge and attitudes about human papillomavirus (HPV), cervical cancer, and screening. Methods: A local physician led an education session about cervical cancer for 62 men in Kisenyi, Kampala in Uganda. Trained nurse midwives administered surveys to assess knowledge and attitudes before and after the education session. Results: From the pre-education survey, only 24.6% of men had heard of HPV previously, and 59% of men had heard of cervical cancer. Posteducation, 54.5% of men believed only women could be infected with HPV and 32.7% of men believed antibiotics could cure HPV. Despite their limited knowledge, 98.2% of men stated they would support their partners to receive screening for cervical cancer, and 100% of men surveyed stated they would encourage their daughter to get the HPV vaccine if available. Conclusions: Knowledge of HPV and cervical cancer among Ugandan men is low. Even after targeted education, confusion remained about disease transmission and treatment. Ongoing education programs geared toward men and interventions to encourage spousal communication about reproductive health and shared decision making may improve awareness of cervical cancer prevention strategies.