Knowledge about the Relation between Human Papillomavirus and Oropharynx Squamous Cell Carcinomas among University Students: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background: The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection globally and is linked to certain types of cancer, including oropharynx squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCC). Unfortunately, a large part of the population is unaware of this connection. University students play a crucial role in spreading scientific knowledge, and many studies have been conducted to assess their knowledge on the subject. However, no study has collated data from previous research. Therefore, our study aims to carry out a systematic review with meta-analysis to determine the level of knowledge among university students regarding the link between HPV and OPSCC.

Methodology: We conducted a systematic review according to the recommendations of the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA). We include 22 of a total of 290 studies.

Results: The overall pooled prevalence of university students who knew the relation between HPV and OPSCC was 45.00% (95% CI: 35.00-55.00). According to the subgroup meta-analysis, the pooled prevalence was highest in dental students 64.00% (95% CI: 47.00-79.00), followed by medical students 39.00% (95% CI: 18.00-66.00), and the lower prevalence was the health student group 35.00% (95% CI: 27.00-43.00).

Conclusion: This systematic review revealed low knowledge about the relationship between HPV and OPSCC among university students, but better knowledge among dental students.