Caregiver knowledge and Attitudes toward Human Papillomavirus Vaccination among adolescent girls living with HIV in Sierra Leone: A health facility-based cross-sectional study

The study examined knowledge and willingness of caregivers of adolescent girls living with HIV in Sierra Leone regarding HPV vaccination. Among 249 caregivers, only 32.1% had heard of HPV and only 24.4% knew about its link to cervical cancer. Misconceptions were widespread, with 16.3% of caregivers incorrectly associating oral contraceptives with cervical cancer. Although more educated caregivers demonstrated higher knowledge levels (45.5%), their vaccination willingness (50%) was comparable to less educated groups. Main barriers included lack of vaccine awareness (66.1%) and missed school vaccination days (10.3%). Healthcare workers emerged as the most effective information source. The study emphasizes the need for culturally tailored education and integration of HPV vaccination into HIV care services.