Objective: To evaluate the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Hungarian general practitioners (GPs) concerning human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, cervical cancer prevention, and HPV vaccination, and to identify physician-level factors associated with proactive recommendation practices. Methods: A cross-sectional nationwide survey was conducted between 30 April and 1 June 2024. The online questionnaire was distributed to practicing Hungarian GPs listed in the National Health Insurance Fund database. Anonymous responses were collected on demographic data, knowledge of HPV transmission and oncogenic potential, awareness of vaccination guidelines, and clinical counseling habits. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed. A total of 413 responses were received. Results: Most respondents were female (72.6%) with an average of 22.4 ± 9.6 years of professional experience. Although 89.8% correctly identified the causal link between HPV and cervical cancer, only 56.2% were aware of the complete vaccination schedule recommended for adolescents initiating after age 15. Knowledge scores were significantly higher among female physicians, urban practitioners, and those with postgraduate preventive medicine training. While the overall attitude toward HPV vaccination was positive (mean 4.6/5), 38.4% of respondents reported parental hesitancy as a common barrier, often citing misinformation regarding vaccine safety (64.9%) and lack of perceived need for boys (58.7%). Regression analysis revealed that familiarity with WHO and national vaccination guidelines independently predicted proactive vaccine recommendation (β = 0.43, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Hungarian general practitioners demonstrate good baseline awareness of HPV and its oncogenic role; however, knowledge gaps persist regarding vaccination schedules and counseling practices. Enhancing continuous medical education and communication training could strengthen GPs’ role as key advocates in HPV vaccine promotion.

Nagy -Tóth Ildikó elnok, Mályvavirág Alapítvány Email: toth.ico@malyvavirag.hu A Mályvavirág Alapítvány itthon és a világban The Mallow Flower Foundation at home and around the world…

Background/Objectives: To evaluate cervical cancer screening participation among women in Hungary and to identify motivators, barriers, experiences, and social factors associated with screening attendance. Methods: A cross-sectional survey with nationwide recruitment was conducted between November 2023 and September 2024 using non-probability voluntary sampling through a patient-foundation campaign, social media and other online communication channels, and community-based distribution of paper questionnaires. The survey assessed cervical cancer screening participation, time since last screening, screening frequency, healthcare setting, screening-related experiences, and perceived motivators and barriers. Sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics, self-rated health, and communication about screening within the social environment were also collected. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and subgroup comparisons. Associations were evaluated using chi-square tests with effect sizes reported as Cramér’s V. Responses to open-ended questions were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results: A total of 5196 women were included in the analysis. Overall, 59.8% reported screening within the past year, while 17.3% attended more than two years earlier and 3.5% never went for screening. Screening participation was highest among women aged 25–54 years and lower among younger and older age groups. Communication about screening within the social environment was associated with more recent and more regular attendance. The proportion reporting screening within the past year was highest among women aged 25–54 years and lower among younger and older age groups. Women who reported discussing cervical cancer screening within their social environment were more likely to report recent and regular screening attendance. Screening experiences were generally favorable, although physical and emotional aspects were rated less positively. The most frequently reported motivation for attending screening was consciousness/health awareness, whereas major barriers included negative healthcare experiences, limited access to services, cost of private care, fear of diagnosis, and time constraints. Conclusions: Cervical cancer screening participation in this sample was high but varied across demographic, experiential, and social factors. Age and communication about screening were the factors most strongly associated with screening behavior, while structural barriers and negative healthcare experiences were common answers for reduced participation.