Dob

Cervical cancer, mainly caused by persistent high-risk human papillomavirus HPV infection, remains a major public health concern. Despite available HPV vaccines and better screening, many countries, including Slovenia, have low vaccination rates. The World Health Organization aims for high vaccination and screening coverage by 2030 to eliminate cervical cancer. This study evaluates HPV vaccine acceptance among Slovenian women, identifies barriers, and explores combined HPV screening and vaccination to reduce HPV transmission and accelerate cancer prevention locally. Women attending regular gynecological exams within Slovenias national cervical cancer screening program ZORA are invited to participate. Eligible women aged 35 or younger who are unvaccinated will be counseled on HPV vaccination and offered the nonavalent Gardasil9 vaccine free of charge. The vaccine is given in three doses over six months. Participants undergo cervical smears as part of routine care, and the study includes women with normal screening results, follow-up after abnormal findings, or clinical indications. Participants complete an anonymous questionnaire about demographics, screening history, vaccination status, and vaccine attitudes, with help if needed. Researchers will monitor vaccine uptake over two years. Data will be anonymized and analyzed to understand vaccine acceptance and identify optimal target groups. The study aims to help improve HPV vaccination coverage and enhance cervical cancer prevention in Slovenia.