HPV in West Virginia: Exploring Human Papilloma Virus Education, Prevention, and Beliefs

West Virginia has the highest incidence rate of cancers associated with Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) in the United States.1 This study explored issues that may provide some clues to the increased rate of HPV-associated cancers in West Virginia despite adequate vaccination coverage above the national average.2 Specific topics that were explored included knowledge of HPV and associated cancers, accessibility to preventative healthcare relating to HPV vaccination and Pap smear, as well as any cultural beliefs that may affect HPV-associated cancer prevention. A total of 1,038 State Fair attendees from 45 counties in West Virginia voluntarily consented to take a gender and knowledge specific survey. The results were analyzed and presented in graphical formats. The chi-squared test was used to test for significance of categorical variables. The results revealed an increased acceptance rate for HPV vaccination in the younger generations compared to the older age groups. The findings of this study suggest that a vigorous, all-inclusive educational campaign against HPV that details HPV-associated cancers, risk factors and mode of transmission, availability and safety of HPV vaccines, as well as preventative strategies, conducted by schools, clinics, and media may reduce the future incidence rate of cancers caused by HPV in West Virginia.