Introduction.

The human papilloma virus (HPV) is the main etiologic factor of cervical cancer (CaCu) which constitutes a global public health problem, especially in developing countries. More than 120 types of HPV virus have been described, however, types 16 and 18 are responsible for 70% of cervical cancer cases. The importance of Knowledge about prevention and transmission is essential to avoid infection or achieve early detection.

Objective.

To determine the level of knowledge about HPV prevention of the students at the General Secondary School No. 1 in Pachuca, Hidalgo.

Materials and methods.

Cross-sectional, observational study, the information was obtained from a questionnaire applied to the students at a General Secondary School in the state of Hidalgo. Descriptive analyses were performed, measures of central tendency and dispersion were calculated for continuous variables and ratios and proportions were obtained for qualitative variables.

Results.

96.5% of the respondents reported having heard about HPV, more tan 90% believe that this disease is curable. Regarding vaccination, 50% expressed knowing the age at which the vaccine should be applied. Only 76% reported having the first doce of the vaccine, however, only 17% applied all the necessary doses ofi t.

Conlusions.

To improve the health leve lof the mexican population, it is necessary to implement a preventive action program guarantteing coverage in HPV vaccination. If this type of program is not implemented, the results will not be entirely positive.

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