Study Protocol: The Association Between Sexual Health Literacy and HPV Risk Perception with Preventive Behaviors Among Medical Students in Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection globally and a major cause of various cancers, including cervical cancer. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, HPV vaccination rates remain low, particularly among young adults in Iran. Sexual health literacy (SHL) and risk perception are critical factors influencing preventive behaviors against HPV infection. However, the specific relationship between these constructs and preventive behaviors among medical students in Iran has not been adequately investigated.This study protocol outlines a cross-sectional investigation to examine the association between sexual health literacy and HPV risk perception with preventive behaviors among students in medical, paramedical, public health, nursing, and midwifery programs at Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Iran. This quantitative descriptive-analytical study will employ a cross-sectional design. A stratified random sampling method will be used to select participants from the target population. Data collection will utilize three validated instruments, the Sexual Health Literacy Questionnaire for Iranian Adults (SHELIA), a HPV Risk Perception Scale adapted from the Health Belief Model constructs, and a Preventive Behaviors Scale specifically developed for HPV. Sample size calculation was performed using Krejcie and Morgan's table, with an estimated sample of 384 participants required to achieve 80% power and a 5% margin of error. Data analysis will be conducted using SPSS version 26 and AMOS version 24, employing descriptive statistics, reliability analysis (Cronbach's alpha), construct validity assessment (confirmatory factor analysis), and hypothesis testing through structural equation modeling (SEM).This study expects to demonstrate significant positive associations between sexual health literacy and HPV risk perception with HPV preventive behaviors. The findings will provide evidence-based data to inform the development of targeted educational interventions aimed at enhancing SHL and risk perception among medical students, ultimately improving HPV prevention outcomes in this critical population who will serve as future healthcare providers