ABSTRACT:
Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is a key strategy for cervical cancer prevention, yet vaccination coverage remains suboptimal in many regions of China, particularly in central areas. Using Jiangxi Province as a case study, this research examined HPV vaccine awareness, willingness, and uptake among age-eligible women to identify policy-relevant determinants of vaccination behavior. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among women of eligible age, collecting data on socio-demographic characteristics, HPV-related knowledge, vaccination status, willingness to vaccinate, perceived barriers, and information sources. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize vaccination patterns, and associations between individual characteristics and vaccination willingness were assessed using chi-square tests and one-way analysis of variance. Among 199 respondents, general awareness of the HPV vaccine was high, yet substantial knowledge gaps regarding vaccination timing and effectiveness remained. Approximately two-thirds of participants expressed willingness to receive the HPV vaccine, while actual vaccination uptake was considerably lower. Willingness differed significantly by age, residence, education level, income, and HPV-related knowledge (all p < 0.05). High cost, safety concerns, and low perceived personal risk were the most frequently reported barriers. These findings indicate that favorable attitudes alone are insufficient to ensure vaccine uptake. Strengthening equitable access, improving risk communication, and implementing population-specific policy interventions are essential to increasing HPV vaccination coverage in central China.