BACKGROUND: Understanding the gaps in knowledge about human papilloma virus (HPV) infection, transmission, and health consequences and factors associated with the knowledge gap is an essential first s

The gap

Consensus across the literature

Supporting evidence — 3 representative gaps

• Evaluating knowledge and awareness of cervical cancer, human papillomavirus and human papillomavirus vaccination among women in East London, South Africa (2026) · doi

  • Strengthen health education at the primary level: This should be done in CHC facilities, where the lowest knowledge levels were observed. They need structured, frequent health education sessions focused on cervical cancer, HPV and the benefits of vaccination. • Train and empower health workers: Because most women who knew about HPV received this information from health professionals, more training assistant nurses, registered nurses, community health workers and doctors to offer consistent health messaging during consultations is crucial. investment in • Community outreach and school engagement: Efforts must be made to extend HPV vaccine awareness beyond the school system, targeting parents and caregivers through local media, churches, community meetings and women’s groups. Key messages for policy and practice • Cervical cancer is the leading gynaecological malignancy in South Africa. • Awareness of HPV and HPV vaccination is critically low in East London. • Human papillomavirus vaccine uptake remains poor, far below the WHO targets. • Healthcare workers are central to patient education but require further training and support. • Stronger community engagement and targeted education are essential to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem.

  Keywords: health education community cervical cancer workers vaccination women training nurses school engagement vaccine awareness strengthen
• Nurses as Vaccine Advocates: Effective Strategies for Overcoming Vaccine Hesitancy In the Pediatric Population (2026) · doi

  Nurses are encouraged to continuously improve their communication skills and participate in training focused on vaccine education and patient interaction. Healthcare institutions should provide adequate staffing, training, and educational materials. Policy makers should strengthen immunization policies and address misinformation, especially on digital platforms, to improve public trust in vaccines. Future researchers are advised to explore parental perspectives further to gain a deeper understanding of vaccine hesitancy factors. Community and public health programs should enhance collaboration with healthcare workers and local leaders to promote vaccine awareness and address cultural influences. https://epublications.myeduheart.com/index.php/ijnhha/index E-ISSN: 3116-5974 P-ISSN: 3116-5966 265

  Keywords: vaccine improve training healthcare address public index issn nurses encouraged continuously communication skills participate focused
• Factors Associated With Adherence to Follow-up Colposcopy (2013) · doi

  BACKGROUND: Understanding the gaps in knowledge about human papilloma virus (HPV) infection, transmission, and health consequences and factors associated with the knowledge gap is an essential first step for the development of interventions to improve adherence to follow-up among women with abnormal Pap smears.

  Keywords: knowledge background understanding gaps human papilloma virus infection transmission health consequences factors associated essential first