Gender differences in knowledge and health beliefs related to behavioral intentions to prevent human papillomavirus infection
Kim, H.Won.
Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health 25(3): 248-259
2013
ISSN/ISBN: 1010-5395 PMID: 22652244 DOI: 10.1177/1010539512444307Document Number: 576218
This study assessed gender differences in human papillomavirus (HPV) awareness (including knowledge), health beliefs, and behavioral intentions to prevent infection. The participants comprised 763 and 905 sexually active men and women, respectively. Gender differences were observed in HPV knowledge, health beliefs, and sociodemographics that were significantly correlated with behavioral intentions to prevent infection. There were gender differences in the factors related to behavioral intentions to prevent HPV. In multiple regression analysis, HPV knowledge was not related to behavioral intentions, whereas perceived benefits were related to behavioral intentions consistently among men and women, while the effects of perceived barriers were inconsistent. HPV awareness was very low regardless of gender. While HPV education is urgently required for men, enhancing HPV awareness, reinforcing positive perceptions of HPV prevention, and reducing unhealthy sexual behaviors are necessary for the entire Korean population.