Perceptions of HPV and HPV vaccines among parents and caregivers of girls aged 9-14 years in Nigeria: a qualitative study.
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BACKGROUND: Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is a critical strategy for preventing cervical cancer. Understanding community perceptions is essential to improving uptake, especially in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria, where vaccine coverage remains suboptimal. OBJECTIVE: To explore the perceptions of parents and caregivers regarding HPV and the HPV vaccine among girls aged 9-14 years in Nigeria. METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted using in-depth interviews with 72 parents, caregivers, and school administrators across 9 selected sites in 5 geopolitical zones of Nigeria. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically using the Nvivo software version 14. RESULTS: Participants demonstrated a general awareness that the HPV vaccine was freely available through government-supported programs. Vaccine acceptance was motivated by the desire to prevent cervical cancer and protect children's long-term health. Parents and school administrators perceived HPV infection as a serious health threat with implications for education, economic stability, and future well-being. However, misconceptions about transmission routes and perceived susceptibility were common. School administrators recognized the relevance of the vaccine and viewed themselves as key advocates for its uptake. CONCLUSION: While there is strong support for the HPV vaccine among parents and educators, persistent knowledge gaps and sociocultural beliefs may hinder broader acceptance. Strengthening health education and leveraging schools as vaccination hubs may improve uptake and sustainability of HPV immunization programs in Nigeria. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12982-025-01276-0.