A QUALITATIVE EXPLORATION OF HPV VACCINE HESITANCY AMONG PARENTS IN KARACHI

Abstract

In Pakistan, refusal to take the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine remains a major public health concern, contributing to the continued prevalence of cervical cancer. This qualitative study, which focuses on parental perspectives, knowledge, and systemic challenges, seeks to understand the underlying causes of HPV vaccine hesitancy. Because parents make a significant portion of vaccination decisions for children in this age range, the study focused on parents with children aged 9 to 14.A qualitative exploratory research design was used to get in-depth insights into the participants' beliefs and experiences. Purposive sampling was utilized to enroll 12 individuals, and data collection was ongoing until saturation was reached. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data, which allowed for flexibility while yet covering essential research areas such as HPV knowledge, vaccine awareness, perceived risks and benefits, cultural attitudes, and healthcare-related variables. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and examined thematically.The studies identified three significant themes. First, a lack of information and awareness emerged as a significant factor, with the majority of participants having a poor understanding of HPV infection, transmission, and the link to cervical cancer. Second, cultural and religious views had a substantial impact on vaccine adoption, as the association between HPV vaccination and sexual behavior created stigma, misinformation, and reluctance among parents. Third, hurdles to healthcare delivery, such as a lack of professional recommendations, high vaccine costs, limited accessibility, and the absence of a national vaccination program, exacerbated hesitation.The study suggests that HPV vaccine hesitancy in Pakistan is a complicated problem caused by knowledge shortages, societal issues, and structural barriers. To address these challenges, comprehensive measures are required, including public awareness campaigns, healthcare provider engagement, culturally responsive education, and policy-level interventions such as including the HPV vaccine into the national immunization program. These steps are critical to increasing vaccine uptake and lowering the burden of cervical cancer in Pakistan.