Conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas acerca del Virus del Papiloma Humano en trabajadoras sexuales atendidas en el Centro de Salud Carlos Elizalde, Cuenca Ecuador. Febrero 2024 – julio 2024

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the most common sexually transmitted disease worldwide, associated with sexual activity and a major risk factor for cervical cancer. The objective of the study was to identify the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding HPV among sex workers attending the Carlos Elizalde Health Center in Cuenca, Ecuador, between February and July 2024. A descriptive study was conducted with 80 sex workers who attend health check-ups at this center. A self-administered questionnaire was used, and the data were processed in Microsoft Excel® 2022, classifying the level of knowledge as low (4 or fewer correct answers), medium (5-7), and high (8 or more). Most participants were between eighteen and twenty-nine years old, had secondary education, and were not married. Regarding knowledge about HPV, most presented a high level of knowledge and recognized sexual contact as the main mode of transmission. Additionally, they were aware of the existence of the HPV vaccine and the Pap smear test. Most considered HPV prevention important and had already undergone screening tests, although a minority did not consistently use condoms. In conclusion, although a high level of knowledge about HPV was observed, gaps remain in vaccination coverage and consistent condom use, highlighting the need to improve public health interventions to enhance HPV prevention and control in this population