Validation of a measure of knowledge about human papillomavirus (HPV) using item response theory and classical test theory

► Public knowledge of HPV is crucial to policy development and service delivery. ► A 29-item questionnaire was developed from the most current research findings. ► A large (n = 2409) cross-national respondent sample was recruited. ► Results show the questionnaire to be a sound, sophisticated measure of HPV knowledge. ► The questionnaire can facilitate comparing results of future HPV knowledge research.