Knowledge and Beliefs of Hearing Impaired Individuals Regarding Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a highly prevalent virus worldwide, affecting both men and women. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that accounts for over 99% of cervical cancer cases. While HPV may not always cause cancer, screening for risky types is important. Cancer screening programs are the most important step in early cancer detection. Early diagnosis, followed by cancer screening, reduces morbidity and mortality. Access to screening services is a key factor in early cancer detection and screening. Access to information and communication with healthcare professionals are crucial for accessing cancer screening programs. Communication barriers appear to be one of the most significant barriers to early cancer diagnosis, screening, and treatment. People with hearing impairments are a unique group experiencing communication barriers. They face challenges accessing health-related information, communicating with healthcare professionals, obtaining adequate information from healthcare professionals, and understanding the information they receive. People with hearing impairments have lower literacy and health literacy rates than those without hearing impairments. Therefore, hearing-impaired individuals have less knowledge about HPV than hearing-impaired individuals, and their participation in HPV screening is more limited. It is necessary to increase the knowledge and awareness of hearing-impaired individuals about HPV screening. Health education utilizes booklets, digital instant messaging, flashcards, videos, video conferencing, and similar educational methods. One such educational method is playing with cards. Card games are fun and educational. These methods offer the advantages of being simple, playable anywhere, easy to store, suitable for children or adults in large or small groups, and actively engaging participants in the game. Studies in the literature report that providing education and information through the educational environment of the four-card game helps increase participants' knowledge and self-efficacy. Health education is one approach to influencing individuals, groups, or communities to achieve better health. The literature indicates that increasing awareness of HPV, along with participation in early screening and vaccination programs, can positively influence attitudes and behaviors. Therefore, this research will be conducted to determine the effect of education using the card game method on the knowledge and health beliefs of hearing-impaired individuals regarding Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).

• Post-test [Time frame: One month after the card game, the HPV Information Form will be applied to the individuals.]
• Post-test [Time frame: One month after the card game, the Health Belief Model Scale on HPV Infection and Vaccination will be administered.]