Rates of human papillomavirus vaccination, attitudes about vaccination, and human papillomavirus prevalence in young women

Attitudes, Beliefs, and Intention to Receive a COVID-19 Vaccine for Pediatric Patients With Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease (SCD), which occurs primarily in individuals of African descent, has been identified as a preexisting health condition for COVID-19 with higher rates of hospitalization, intensive care unit admissions, and death. National data indicate Black individuals have higher rates of vaccine hesitancy and lower COVID-19 vaccination rates. Understanding the key predictors of intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine is essential as intention is strongly associated with vaccination behavior. This multisite study examined attitudes, beliefs, intentions to receive COVID-19 vaccines, and educational preferences among adolescents, young adults, and caregivers of children living with SCD. Participants completed an online survey between July 2021 and March 2022. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the association between participant age and COVID-19 vaccine attitudes, beliefs, and vaccine intentions. Of the 200 participants, 65.1% of adolescents, 62.5% of young adults, and 48.4% of caregivers intended to receive a COVID-19 vaccine for themselves or their child. Perception that the vaccine was safe was statistically significant and associated with patient and caregiver intention to receive the COVID-19 vaccine for themselves or their child. Participant age was also statistically significant and associated with the intent to get a booster for patients. Study findings highlight key concerns and influencers identified by patients with SCD and their caregivers that are essential for framing COVID-19 vaccine education during clinical encounters. Study results can also inform the design of messaging campaigns for the broader pediatric SCD population and targeted interventions for SCD subpopulations (eg, adolescents, caregivers).

A multilevel intervention to promote HPV vaccination among young adults in Texas: protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections can cause cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, penis, anus, and oropharynx. The most recently approved HPV vaccine, Gardasil-9, protects against HPV infection and can prevent HPV-associated invasive cancers. However, Gardasil-9 is one of the most underused vaccines in the US today. Young adults are at risk for HPV infection, but many are not vaccinated. This study uses a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to test an innovative multilevel intervention to increase HPV vaccination rates among young adults. In this paper, we describe the research protocol.

METHODS

The study uses a two by three factorial design. A total of 1200 young adults in Texas, age 18-26 years, who have not been previously fully vaccinated against HPV will be randomly assigned to one of six conditions to receive: (1) standard CDC information about HPV vaccination (control); (2) video narratives about HPV vaccination; (3) written narratives about HPV vaccination; or (4-6) enhanced access to HPV vaccine combined with (4) standard CDC information, (5) video narratives, or (6) written narratives. The two primary outcomes are the rate of HPV vaccination initiation by 3-month follow-up and rate of HPV vaccination completion by 9-month follow-ups. We will determine the impact of the individual level intervention (i.e., persuasive narratives through video or written format), the systemic level intervention (i.e., enhanced access to HPV vaccines), and the combination of both levels, on HPV vaccination initiation and completion. We will also use purposive sampling to select participants to take part in semi-structured interviews/focus groups to better understand the mechanisms of the intervention.

DISCUSSION

Recruitment and data collection began in March 2022. We expect to complete data collection by March 2026. We expect that narratives, enhanced access, and the combination of both will improve HPV vaccination initiation and completion rates among young adults. If proven successful, these individual- and system-level interventions can be easily disseminated in regions with low HPV vaccination rates to improve HPV vaccination, and ultimately decrease HPV-related cancer burden.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT05057312.

Factors Associated With Racially and Ethnically Diverse Sample of Adolescents, Young Adults, and Parents' Intention to Receive a COVID-19 Vaccine

PURPOSE

Identify variables, including moderating variables, associated with adolescents, young adults, and parents' intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine in January 2021.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey.

SETTING

United States Midwestern academic medical center.

SAMPLE

Adolescents (n = 242); young adults (n = 333); parents (n = 563).

MEASURES

Associations between predictors-participant characteristics, general vaccine hesitancy, COVID-19 and vaccine knowledge, perceptions, and normative beliefs-and intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine (outcome) were assessed. To determine variables impacting the strength of the relationship between predictors and outcome, moderators included 2020/2021 influenza vaccine receipt, having experienced discrimination, and primary sources of information for COVID-19.

ANALYSIS

Multivariable logistic regression examined associations, including moderating effects, for adolescents, young adults, parents, and parents for child.

RESULTS

With 20,231 email addresses receiving the survey, 1138 participants were included in the analysis. Intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine was reported by 60.7% adolescents (n = 147), 65.2% young adults (n = 217), and 38.5% parents (n = 217) and 38.2% parents (n = 215) intended to vaccinate their child. Intention was associated with lower general vaccine hesitancy for adolescents (AOR = 1.50), young adults (AOR = 1.39), parents (AOR = 1.18), and parents' intention for their child (AOR = 1.17). Parents citing reputable medical experts as primary source of COVID-19 information positively moderated vaccine perceptions and intention for self (AOR = 8.25) and child (AOR = 6.37).

CONCLUSION

Clinician training to address vaccine hesitancy may be effective at promoting positive COVID-19 vaccine perceptions.

Psychometric properties of a modified health belief model for cervical cancer and visual inspection with acetic acid among healthcare professionals in Ethiopia

PURPOSE

Evidence supports that the Health Belief Model (HBM) can explain and predicts certain health behaviors, including participation in cervical cancer (CC) screening. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of a modified HBM for CC and visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) in female healthcare professionals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2020.

METHODS

Psychometric properties related to CC and VIA were tested using 42-item modified HBM self-administered questionnaire and a cross-sectional study design with simple random sampling. Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin and Bartlett's sphericity test indicated that data sampling adequacy for exploratory factor analysis was 0.792 (χ2 = 3189.95, df = 351, p < .001). Items with cross-loading and factor loadings ≥ 0.5 were retained. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to determine model fit.

RESULTS

The final analysis included 194 women, (mean age 30±4.34). Twelve items with ≤ 0.5 were removed and 30 retained items loaded into 6 factors; (benefits of VIA, perceived seriousness of CC, barrier (fear of negative outcome), self-efficacy, susceptibility to CC, and barriers (health system delivery)) explained 65% of the total variance. Cronbach's alpha for the total instrument was 0.8 and reliability for the 6 subscales was 0.76-0.92. Composite reliability and average variance extracted indicated good internal consistency and convergent validity. CFA identified 6 additional items to be removed with high residual covariance. The final 24 items of the modified HBM had an acceptable model fit (goodness-of-fit index (GFI) = 0.861, adjusted GFI = 0.823, comparative fit index = 0.937, root mean square error of approximation = 0.059).

CONCLUSION

The modified HBM for CC and VIA with 24 items had adequate psychometric properties and may be used by Ethiopian healthcare professionals for research or clinical purposes. To support external validity the updated 24 items tool is suggested for application in further study in different populations in Ethiopia.

Translation and psychometric evaluation of an instrument to assess the health beliefs of Pakistani mothers regarding human papillomavirus vaccination

Objective

Investigating mothers' health beliefs regarding human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is essential for understanding their decisions regarding vaccinating their daughters against HPV. There is no available validated instrument to measure the health beliefs of Pakistani mothers regarding HPV vaccination for their daughters. The purpose of this study was to translate the Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Scale - Health Belief Model (HPVS-HBM) into Urdu and to evaluate the psychometric properties of the translated Urdu version among Pakistani mothers in Hong Kong.

Methods

This was a descriptive correlational study for which a convenience sample of 260 Pakistani women was recruited. The original HPVS-HBM questionnaire was translated from English to Urdu according to Brislin's model. A panel of experts reviewed the translated questionnaire and assessed the content validity of the items and the scale. Face validity was assessed in a sample of five Pakistani mothers, while structural validity was examined by an exploratory factor analysis. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability were assessed to evaluate the reliability of the translated instrument.

Results

The translated questionnaire demonstrated good face validity and content validity (item-level content validity index: 0.83-1.00; scale-level content validity index: 0.89-1.00). Factor analysis of the 22 items in the scale revealed a three-factor structure (perceived susceptibility, perceived severity and perceived benefits), which accounted for 77.66% of the total variance. The translated questionnaire also showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha: 0.93-0.98) and acceptable test-retest reliability (weighted kappa: 0.49-0.96; intra-class correlation coefficient: 0.83-0.93).

Conclusions

The translated Urdu version of the HPVS-HBM demonstrated desirable psychometric properties, indicating that it could be used as a valid and reliable instrument for measuring Pakistani mothers' health beliefs regarding HPV vaccination for their daughters in Hong Kong.

Long-term effect of mobile phone-based education and influencing factors of willingness to receive HPV vaccination among female freshmen in Shanxi Province, China

BACKGROUND

This study was conducted to characterize the long-term effect of mobile-based education on Chinese female freshmen and disclose the possible predictors of their willingness to get vaccinated based on the information-motivation-behavioral skills (IMB) model.

METHODS

We randomly assigned 509 participants to a 7-day mobile-based educational intervention or control group and collected information about general information, health, and sexual behavior, HPV vaccination intention and action, HPV-related knowledge, cognition, and behavioral skill by an online self-administrated questionnaire at baseline, post-intervention, and at the 1-month and 3-month follow-ups.

RESULTS

The intervention arm showed an improvement in IMB scores after education. Despite the persistent improvement in knowledge, the improvement in their motivation and behavioral skills decreased at the 1-month and 3-month follow-ups. Participants' vaccination willingness was elevated after the baseline survey in both the intervention and control groups, while the overall appointment/vaccination rate was only 3.73% 3 months later. The intention to get vaccinated was associated with knowing HPV (adjusted OR: 2.37, 95% CI: 1.44 - 3.89), perceiving more barriers (adjusted OR: 2.16, 95% CI: 1.44 - 3.25), higher subjective norms (adjusted OR: 2.05, 95% CI: 1.26 - 3.32), and having more behavioral skills (adjusted OR: 2.95, 95% CI: 1.79 - 4.87).

CONCLUSION

Seven-day mobile-based education was effective to increase IMB model scores among female freshmen. However, the improvement in motivation and behavioral skills was not persistent. Information, perceived barriers, subjective norms, and behavioral skills were discovered to be influencing factors of vaccination intention. Future research with longer, more convenient, and more tailored education to the main influencing factors is warranted.

HPV Vaccine Intent among Adult Women Receiving Care at Community Health Centers

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a disease that exacts substantial costs in human life and public health expenditures. Fortunately, a vaccine exists that can mitigate these costs. This study reports the development and evaluation of the intervention designed to overcome these barriers by using culturally grounded narratives to promote HPV vaccination. Women's Stories (WS) targets women over the age of 18 and was originally successfully validated for use among college students resulting in NCI recognition. WS was adapted for touch pad delivery in Planned Parenthood clinics where a randomized clinical trial was conducted in 8 clinics in 3 cities. Two hundred seventeen women were randomly assigned to treatment and control, completing pretest and posttest surveys. This study examined data from the immediate posttest. An intent to treat analysis was conducted using a generalized linear mixed modeling approach using a multinomial link and accounting for repeated measures by site. Results demonstrate significant short-term effects on vaccine intentions and vaccine self-efficacy. When compared to control group participants, women in the treatment condition more likely to intend to get the shot today/the day of interview (p < 0.01), as well as in 1 (p < 0.01) and 6 (p < 0.01) months and had greater self-efficacy to receive the HPV vaccination (B = 0.54; p = 0.0002). These results are promising for the potential impact of the intervention in clinical settings as well as providing a model for overcoming lack of awareness and vaccine resistance in other segments of the population.

Vacteens.org: A Mobile Web app to Improve HPV Vaccine Uptake

U.S. HPV vaccine uptake remains below the Healthy People 2030 goal of 80% series completion. Parental concerns and misinformation about the efficacy and safety of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine remain, and may be addressed by digital interventions tailored to their concerns. Reported here are results from a small scale randomized trial testing a mobile web app for parents and their adolescent daughters (ages 11–14 years) encouraging HPV vaccination in New Mexico, an ethnically-diverse U.S. state.

Methods: A clinic-cluster randomized trial where pediatric clinics (n = 9) were recruited and randomized, and parent-adolescent pairs (n = 82) within clinics received either the Vacteens.org/Vacunadolescente.org mobile web app or Usual and Customary (UC) HPV Vaccination information. Parents completed online surveys at baseline and 3-months. Daughters' HPV vaccine data were collected from the New Mexico State Immunization Information System 1 year post baseline.

Results: Three month survey results found Vacteens.org/Vacunadolescente.org parents to have higher positive HPV vaccine beliefs, informed decision making, intent to vaccinate and vaccine confidence outcomes than UC parents. HPV vaccine data found higher first dose HPV vaccination (Pearson χ² = 6.13, p = 0.013, Vacteens.org/Vacunadolescente.org group 59.4%, UC group 40.6%), and higher HPV vaccination series completion (Pearson χ² = 6.49, p = 0.011, Vacteens.org/Vacunadolescente.org group 68.4%, UC group 31.6%).

Conclusions: The small trial results showed the Vacteens.org/Vacunadolescente.org web app prompted positive vaccine-related attitudes and beliefs, and more HPV vaccination initiation and series completion. Mobile web apps can make decision-making tools for HPV vaccination widely available on digital platforms, reducing vaccine hesitancy, and confusion and increase HPV vaccine uptake.

Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Rates by Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation Among 18-44-Year-Olds in the U.S

In the U.S., human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination has been recommended for individuals up to age 26, although the vaccination is currently approved for all people up to the age of 45. This research sought to explore HPV vaccination disparities by age with subgroup analysis by gender identity and sexual orientation groups, as well as sociodemographic factors that may serve as barriers to or facilitators of vaccination. This study used data from the 2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Only data for individuals who reported their gender identity, sexual orientation, and HPV vaccination status were included in the analytic sample (n = 7330). HPV vaccination rates for this sample were low, as only 18.2% (n = 1332) of the sample had received the HPV vaccination. These low rates of vaccination were similar across all subsamples: cisgender men (9.8%, n = 343), cisgender women (25.8%, n = 985), heterosexuals (17.5%, n = 1197), lesbian women or gay men (20.8%, n = 40), and bisexuals (30.8%, n = 95). In multivariable logistic regression models, younger participants (18-34) were more likely to report receiving the HPV vaccination across all subsamples. Further modeling indicated several common factors associated with higher odds of vaccination: living in a metropolitan area, having insurance coverage, and having at least one provider. Understanding vaccination disparities, as well as vaccination facilitators and barriers, is important to inform policy and program efforts. This is especially significant for adults between the ages of 35 and 44 who were excluded from the initial vaccination recommendations but are vulnerable due to changing cultural norms, including delayed marriage, nonmonogamous long-term relationships, and the ending of long-term partnerships.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in the transition between adolescence and adulthood

PURPOSE

Young adulthood is characterized by changes in health care decision-making, insurance coverage, and sexual risk. Although the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is now approved for adults up to age 45, and catch-up vaccination is currently recommended up through age 26, vaccination rates remain low in young adults. This study explored perspectives on HPV vaccination among young adults receiving care at the student health center of a large public university.

METHODS

We conducted semi-structured interviews (n = 27) and four focus groups with female and male undergraduate and graduate students (n = 18) and semi-structured interviews with health care providers (n = 6). Interviews and focus groups explored perceived risk of HPV infection, benefits of the HPV vaccine, and motivations for and barriers to HPV vaccination.

RESULTS

Many young adults cited their parents' views and recommendations from medical providers as influential on their decision-making process. Students perceived that cervical cancer prevention was a main benefit of the HPV vaccine and sexual activity was a risk factor for HPV infection. Students often lacked knowledge about the vaccine's benefits for males and expressed some concerns about the safety and side effects of a vaccine perceived as new. Logistical barriers to vaccination included uncertainty over vaccination status and insurance coverage for the vaccine, and concerns about balancing the vaccine schedule with school obligations. Providers' vaccine recommendations were impacted by health system factors, including clinical infrastructure, processes for recommending and documenting vaccination, and office visit priorities. Suggested vaccination promotion strategies included improving the timing and messaging of outreach efforts on campus and bolstering clinical infrastructure.

CONCLUSIONS

Although college may be an opportune time to reach young adults for HPV vaccination, obstacles including navigating parental influence and independent decision-making, lack of awareness of vaccination status, and numerous logistical and system-level barriers may impede vaccination during this time.

Sexual Network Patterns and Their Association With Genital and Anal Human Papillomavirus Infection in Adolescent and Young Men

PURPOSE

This study aimed to determine individual- and partner-level factors associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in vaccinated and unvaccinated men.

METHODS

A total of 747 men, aged 13-26 years, completed a survey of sexual behaviors and were tested for genital and perianal/anal HPV (36 types). Sexual network variables included recent and lifetime concurrency (being in more than one sexual relationship at the same time) and recent sex partner discordance (by race, ethnicity, age, and number of sexual partners). We determined individual-level and sexual network variables associated with ≥1 HPV type and HPV16/18, stratified by vaccination status, using separate multivariable logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Participants' mean age was 21.2 years; 64% were positive for ≥1 HPV type and 21% for HPV16/18. Factors associated with ≥1 HPV type in unvaccinated men included recruitment site and lifetime concurrency. Factors associated with ≥1 HPV type among vaccinated men included recruitment site, Chlamydia history, main male partner, number of lifetime female partners, and no condom use with female partner. Factors associated with HPV16/18 in unvaccinated men included race and partner concurrency. Factors associated with HPV16/18 in vaccinated men included ethnicity, main male partner, and recent concurrency.

CONCLUSIONS

Sexual network variables associated with HPV infection were different based on vaccination status and HPV type, suggesting risk factors for HPV infection may change as the proportion of vaccinated men increases. In addition, participant report of concurrency and not knowing whether one had practiced concurrency were consistent risk factors; clinicians should consider including concurrency in the sexual history to determine the risk of HPV.

Mobile App Strategy to Facilitate Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Among Young Men Who Have Sex With Men: Pilot Intervention Study

BACKGROUND

Mobile app-based interventions have been identified as potential facilitators for vaccination among young men who have sex with men (MSM).

OBJECTIVE

This pilot study aimed to test the feasibility of a theoretically informed mobile health (mHealth) tool designed to reduce health disparities and facilitate human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among a sample of young MSM.

METHODS

The development of the mHealth tool was guided by previous research, implementation intention theory, and design thinking. We recruited MSM aged 18-26 years through a popular online dating app and linked participants to our mHealth tool, which provided HPV vaccine information and fostered access to care.

RESULTS

A total of 42 young MSM participated in this pilot study in Boston, Massachusetts. Participants reported variable HPV knowledge (ie, high knowledge of HPV risk factors and low knowledge of HPV-related cancer risks for men) and positive vaccine beliefs and attitudes. Of those who were either unvaccinated, not up to date, or did not report vaccine status, 23% (8/35) utilized the mHealth tool to obtain HPV vaccination. Participants primarily utilized the tool's (1) educational components and (2) capabilities facilitating concrete vaccine action plans.

CONCLUSIONS

We recruited an underserved at-risk population of youth via an online dating app for our mHealth intervention that resulted in in-person health care delivery. This study was limited by enrollment challenges, including low willingness to download the mHealth tool to mobile devices.

Decline in vaccine-type human papillomavirus prevalence in young men from a Midwest metropolitan area of the United States over the six years after vaccine introduction

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to determine changes in human papillomavirus (HPV) prevalence among young men from a Midwest metropolitan area over the six years after vaccine introduction, including HPV prevalence in men overall, in vaccinated men to examine vaccine impact and in unvaccinated men to examine herd protection. An exploratory aim was to examine associations between number of vaccine doses and HPV prevalence.

METHODS

Men aged 14-26 years reporting male-female and/or male-male sexual contact were recruited from a primary care clinic, sexually transmitted disease clinic, and community setting during two waves of data collection: 2013-2014 (N = 400) and 2016-2017 (N = 347). Participants completed a questionnaire and were tested for penile, scrotal and anal HPV. Changes in prevalence of any (≥1 type) and vaccine-type HPV (HPV6, 11, 16, and/or 18) were examined using propensity score weighted logistic regression. Associations between number of doses and HPV infection were determined using chi-square tests and logistic regression.

RESULTS

The proportion of men with a history of ≥1 HPV vaccine doses increased from 23% to 44% (p < 0.001) from waves 1 to 2. After propensity score weighting, infection with ≥1 vaccine-type HPV significantly decreased among all men (29% to 20%; 31% decrease; odds ratio [OR] = 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.44-0.88) and unvaccinated men (32% to 21%; 36% decrease; OR = 0.56, 95%CI = 0.34-0.86); there was a non-significant decrease (21%) among vaccinated men. Associations between number of doses and HPV prevalence were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of vaccine-type HPV decreased among all, vaccinated, and unvaccinated men six years after HPV vaccine recommendation, supporting vaccine impact and herd protection. Decreases in vaccine-type HPV in all men appear to be due to decreases in unvaccinated men, suggesting that the full impact of vaccination has yet to be realized. Continued monitoring and efforts to vaccinate men prior to sexual initiation are warranted.

Social and cultural construction processes involved in HPV vaccine hesitancy among Chinese women: a qualitative study

Background

HPV vaccine is a prophylactic vaccine to prevent HPV infections. Recommended by the World Health Organization, this vaccine is clinically proven to be one of the most effective preventive measures against the prevalence of cervical cancer and other HPV-associated cancers and chronic genital conditions. However, its uptake rate among women in Hong Kong is insignificant—only approximately 2.9% adolescent girls and 9.7% female university students received HPV vaccination in 2014. With the notion of Critical Medical Anthropology, we aimed to identify if different influential factors, ranging from individual, societal, and cultural, are involved in the decision-making process of whether to receive HPV vaccination.

Methods

We adopted a qualitative approach and conducted in-depth individual semistructured interviews with 40 women in Hong Kong between May and August 2017.

Results

We noted that the following factors intertwined to influence the decision-making process: perceptions of HPV and HPV vaccine; perceived worthiness of HPV vaccines, which was in turn influenced by vaccine cost, marriage plans, and experiences of sexual activities; history of experiencing gynecological conditions, stigma associated with HPV vaccination, acquisition of information on HPV vaccines, distrust on HPV vaccines, and absence of preventive care in the healthcare practice.

Conclusions

HPV vaccination is promoted in a manner that is “feminized” and “moralized” under the patriarchal value system, further imposing the burden of disease on women, and leading to health inequality of women in pursuing the vaccination as a preventive health behaviour as a result. We believe that this ultimately results in an incomplete understanding of HPV, consequently influencing the decision-making process. The “mixed-economy” medical system adopting capitalist logic also molds a weak doctor–patient relationship, leading to distrust in private practice medical system, which affects the accessibility of information regarding HPV vaccination for participants to make the decision.

HPV vaccine acceptance is high among adults in Mexico, particularly in people living with HIV

OBJECTIVE

To measure HPV vaccine acceptance in diverse Mexican adult popula-tions, taking into account HIV status.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 1 329 men and women, with and without HIV, participated in one of three intervention studies, offering HPV vaccination, carried out in the states of Morelos, Tlaxcala and Mexico City; either the bivalent (Morelos n=103, Tlaxcala n=127) or quadrivalent HPV-vaccine (Mexico City n=1 099) was offered.

RESULTS

HPV vaccine was accepted by 80.3% of participants; acceptance was higher in people living with HIV than those without (84.4 vs. 78%, p=0.004). Women had greater HPV infection knowledge (p<0.0001) than men and slightly higher (p=0.4) vaccine acceptance. The main reason for vaccine non-acceptance among HIV-positive participants was their doctor recommended they not get vaccinated.

CONCLUSIONS

Acceptance of HPV-vaccine was high in men and women regardless of HIV status. Even higher rates of acceptability may be achieved by educating healthcare providers to recommend HPV vaccine to their patients.

Social Networks for Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Advice Among African American Parents

PURPOSE

Despite that human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination could prevent ∼90% of HPV-associated cancers, only 65.5% of American adolescents initiate vaccination. African Americans have the highest prevalence of morbidity and mortality from HPV-associated cancers. Mounting evidence suggests that advice from social contacts is associated with vaccine acceptance. The present study examines the associations of social processes with HPV vaccine refusal among African American parents.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among African American parents of children aged 10-12 years before a health-care visit at which HPV vaccine was offered by the health-care provider. Data from the 353 parents who named at least one social contact who advised them about vaccines were included in these analyses.

RESULTS

Only 54.4% of the participants consented to HPV vaccination for their children. On average, parents had 2 to 3 social contacts who provided vaccine advice. Vaccine advice networks were generally dense, family-centric, and homophilous. Slightly over 80% of all parents trusted family members and friends for vaccine advice "some" or "a lot." Controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and reason for the health-care visit, perceived high exposure to anti-HPV vaccine viewpoints and low exposure to pro-HPV vaccine viewpoints were both associated with HPV vaccine refusal (adjusted odds ratio = 1.5, 95% confidence interval = 1.01, 2.3, and adjusted odds ratio = 1.7, 95% confidence interval = 1.2, 2.6, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Social processes may be associated with HPV vaccine refusal among African American parents. Interventions designed to educate African American parents about HPV vaccine to increase uptake should consider leveraging vaccine advice networks for greater impact.

Understanding the use of digital technology to promote human papillomavirus vaccination - A RE-AIM framework approach

The human papillomavirus virus (HPV) vaccine is effective at preventing various cancers, but coverage falls short of targets that are needed for community protection. Here, we use the RE-AIM implementation framework (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance) to understand how text, email, and electronic health record (EHR) reminders and social media campaigns can be used as part of policy and practice interventions to increase HPV vaccination. These technology-based interventions could be used together and mainstreamed into clinical and system-based practice to have the greatest impact. Of the interventions explored, text-based, email-based, and EHR reminders have the most evidence behind them to support their effectiveness. While there are several studies of promotion of the HPV vaccine on social media, more studies are needed to demonstrate their effects and better methods are needed to be able to attribute results to these interventions.

Adolescent Reproductive Health Care: Views and Practices of Pediatric Hospitalists

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Many hospitalized adolescents are at increased risk for pregnancy complications due to an underlying medical condition, however sexual risk assessment is not consistently performed in this setting. While adolescents and their parents are supportive of sexual health discussion in the inpatient setting, a thorough understanding of factors that influence provision of this care among pediatric hospital physicians is lacking. This formative information is needed to facilitate efforts to improve and standardize clinical care provision. Our objective is to assess the frequency and factors that influence the provision of adolescent sexual and reproductive care by pediatric hospitalists.

METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional computerized survey of hospitalists at 5 pediatric hospitals who cared for ≥1 adolescent (14-21 years old) in the past year. Sexual and reproductive care practices were assessed by using a 76-item novel survey informed by the theory of planned behavior. We used descriptive statistics to summarize the data.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight pediatric hospitalists participated (49% response rate): 78% were women and 65% were aged <40 years. Most (69%) reported treating >46 adolescents annually, including many who are at an increased risk for pregnancy complications due to teratogenic medication use or a comorbid condition. A majority felt that sexual and reproductive services are appropriate, although many endorsed barriers, including concern about follow-up after emergency contraception (63%) and time constraints (53%). Most reported insufficient knowledge regarding contraception (59%), desired contraception education (57%), and were likely to increase contraceptive provision if provided education (63%). Hospitalists rarely provided condoms or referral for an intrauterine device.

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric hospitalists frequently care for adolescents who are at risk for pregnancy complications and generally agree that reproductive care is appropriate in the inpatient setting. With these findings, we highlight the critical need for effective comprehensive reproductive health service interventions that are tailored to address the numerous actionable barriers identified in this study.

The moderating role of race/ethnicity on associations between insurance status and HPV vaccination among women in the USA

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate associations between insurance status and HPV vaccination.

METHODS

The present cross-sectional study analyzed data from women aged 18-26 years who participated in the National Health and Nutritional Examination Surveys 2009-2012 in the USA.

RESULTS

The study included 621 women; 424 (68.3%) had some type of insurance and 198 (30.6%) had received the HPV vaccine. In the multivariable model, we found significant interactions between race/ethnicity and insurance status on receiving HPV vaccination. Compared with individuals with no insurance, non-Hispanic black women with any type of insurance demonstrated increased likelihood of HPV vaccination (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.63, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.60-8.21; P=0.002). Among Mexican Americans, there was a negative association between having some insurance and HPV vaccination (aOR 0.35, 95% CI 0.15-0.81; P=0.007). For non-Hispanic black women, the association remained significant across all insurance types (private [aOR 4.29, 95% CI 1.67-11.00; P=0.003], Medicaid [aOR 2.86, 95% CI 1.15-7.13; P=0.025], and other [aOR 4.74, 95% CI 1.06-21.15; P=0.042]). Non-Hispanic white women with insurance other than private or Medicaid had a higher likelihood of HPV vaccination compared with uninsured individuals (aOR 8.36, 95% CI 2.79-25.05; P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

The present findings help to identify at-risk populations less likely to receive the HPV vaccine.

Parental HPV knowledge and perceptions of HPV vaccines among Korean American parents

AIM

The purpose of this study was to examine Korean-Americans (KA) parents' level of knowledge and perceptions of the HPV vaccination, and to identify the differences in parental knowledge and perceptions of the HPV vaccine between KA parents who have vaccinated their children versus those who have not.

BACKGROUND

While there are significant concerns about HPV infection, lower immunization rates, and higher cervical cancer risks facing KAs, limited attention has been paid to the specific concerns of KA parents and barriers that underlie parental reluctance to vaccinate their children.

METHODS

A descriptive comparative design was used in a convenience sample of 74 KA parents. The study questionnaire consisted of demographic items, general knowledge of HPV, and parental perception regarding HPV vaccination.

RESULTS

The level of general knowledge about HPV was very low with a mean score of 3.14 out of 10. Many participants reported negative perception toward HPV vaccination. HPV knowledge scores were not significantly different between parents who did vaccinate their children compared to parents who did not. However, scores for perceived benefits and perceived barriers to vaccination were found to be significantly different between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

A lack of knowledge about HPV and negative perception of the HPV vaccination play a key role in preventing many KA parents from seeking appropriate information and delaying vaccination. Development of a culturally grounded and sensitive HPV education program is critical to improve and implement preventive measures for HPV in this population.

Epidemiology of Any and Vaccine-Type Anogenital Human Papillomavirus Among 13-26-Year-Old Young Men After HPV Vaccine Introduction

PURPOSE

The aims of this study were to determine prevalence of and factors associated with any human papillomavirus (HPV) and vaccine-type HPV among young men after vaccine introduction, stratified by vaccination status.

METHODS

Young men were recruited from clinical sites from 2013 to 2015, completed a survey, and were tested for 36 anogenital HPV types. We determined factors associated with ≥1 HPV type among all participants, and vaccine-type HPV (HPV6, 11, 16, and/or 18) among all, vaccinated and unvaccinated participants, using multivariable regression.

RESULTS

Mean age was 21.5 years and 26% had received at least one HPV vaccine dose. HPV prevalence was lower in vaccinated versus unvaccinated young men (50.5% vs. 62.6%, p = .03). HPV positivity was discordant by anogenital site. At both sites, 59.4% were positive for ≥1 HPV type and 26.0% for ≥1 4-valent vaccine type. In multivariable logistic regression, factors associated with ≥1 HPV type among all participants were frequency of oral sex (odds ratio [OR] = 1.80, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.00-3.24), recent smoking (OR = 1.84, CI = 1.17-2.90), and sexually transmitted infection history (OR = 1.56, CI = 1.02-2.38). Factors associated with vaccine-type HPV among all participants were white versus black race (OR = 1.91, CI = 1.10-3.34) and gonorrhea history (OR = 2.52, CI = 1.45-4.38); among vaccinated participants were private versus Medicaid insurance (OR = 5.6, CI = 1.46-20.4) and private versus no insurance (OR = 15.9, CI = 3.06-83.3); and among unvaccinated participants was gonorrhea history (OR = 1.83, CI = 1.03-3.24).

CONCLUSIONS

Anogenital HPV prevalence was high and vaccination rates low among young men 2-4 years after vaccine introduction, underscoring the urgency of increasing vaccination rates and vaccinating according to national guidelines.

HIV-Infected Young Men Demonstrate Appropriate Risk Perceptions and Beliefs about Safer Sexual Behaviors after Human Papillomavirus Vaccination

The aim of this study was to identify risk perceptions after human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among HIV-infected young men who have sex with men. On average, participants appropriately perceived themselves to be at lower than neutral risk for HPV (mean subscale score 4.2/10), at higher than neutral risk for other sexually transmitted infections (7.0/10), and that safer sexual behaviors were still important (8.5/10). Higher perceived risk of HPV was associated with African-American race (p = .03); higher perceived risk of other sexually transmitted infections with White race (p = .01) and higher knowledge about HPV (p = .001); and higher perceived need for safer sexual behaviors with consistent condom use (p = .02). The study provides reassuring data that HIV-infected young men who have sex with men generally have appropriate risk perceptions and believe that safer sexual behaviors after vaccination are still important. These findings mirror the results of studies in HIV-infected young women and HIV-uninfected adolescents.

Development and Evaluation of a Social Media Health Intervention to Improve Adolescents' Knowledge About and Vaccination Against the Human Papillomavirus

This study describes the formative research, execution, and evaluation of a social media health intervention to improve adolescents’ knowledge about and vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV). Based on the results from formative focus groups with adolescents (N = 38) to determine intervention feasibility, parameters, and message preferences, we developed and conducted a pretest/posttest evaluation of a 3-month social media health intervention for adolescents who had not completed the HPV vaccine series (N = 108). Results revealed that adolescents who fully engaged with the intervention improved in their knowledge compared with a control group, and many were also likely to have interpersonal discussions with others about what they learned. Adolescents are generally interested in receiving information about HPV and the vaccine, along with other relevant health information, through social media channels if messages are considered interesting, their privacy is protected, and the source is credible.

The Relationship of Health Beliefs with Information Sources and HPV Vaccine Acceptance among Young Adults in Korea

Despite the HPV vaccine&rsquo;s efficacy in preventing cervical cancer, its coverage rates among Asians are very low. To increase immunization coverage among these populations, understanding the psychological factors that affect HPV acceptability is critical. To this end, this study examined the relationships between multidimensional health beliefs and HPV vaccine acceptance, and what information sources effectively foster HPV vaccination-related health beliefs. Data were collected using a survey of 323 undergraduate students in Korea. Results showed that perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, and perceived vaccine safety concerns predicted vaccine acceptance. Multiple dimensions of perceived barriers showed differing impacts on vaccine acceptance. In addition, interpersonal information sources were effective in boosting various health beliefs for HPV vaccination. The Internet also was effective in reducing social barriers, but the effects were opposite to those of social media. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

Prevalence of potential sexual abuse in adolescents and young adults and feasibility of an assessment and management plan used in three research projects

The aims of this study were to examine the feasibility of a protocol to assess for assessment and response to potential sexual abuse (defined as self-report of sexual initiation before age 13) among adolescent and young adult research participants in human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination screening; determine the proportion of participants whose survey responses indicated potential sexual abuse and assess whether age, gender, race, and recruitment site were associated with potential abuse. We pooled data from three cross-sectional studies of 13-26 year-old women and men (N = 1541) recruited at a Teen Health Center (THC) and Health Department (HD). Using written and electronic documentation, we demonstrated feasibility by the following outcomes: 100% of participants who indicated early sexual initiation were interviewed by the research staff, 100% of assessments were disclosed to participants' primary care clinicians, and no adverse consequences of the interviews or referrals occurred. Potential sexual abuse was identified in 95 participants (6.2%). In multivariable logistic regression, the following factors were independently associated with potential abuse: race (Black vs. White, odds ratio [OR] = 3.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.6-5.7; other race vs. White, OR = 2.6, 95%CI = 1.0-6.5); and recruitment site (HD vs. THC, OR = 2.1, 95%CI = 1.4-3.3). The standardized protocol to identify, assess and refer youth who may have been sexually abused was feasible and can enable researchers to ensure the safety of study participants.

Characteristics Associated with HPV Diagnosis and Perceived Risk for Cervical Cancer Among Unmarried, Sexually Active College Women

Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been identified as the leading cause of cervical cancer. While HPV risk factors have been well studied, less is known about those with HPV and their perceptions about health ramifications. The purposes of this study were to examine unmarried college student women's (1) HPV diagnosis status and (2) perceived risk of getting cervical cancer in the next 5 years. Data were analyzed from 1106 unmarried, sexually active college women aged 18 to 26. Binary logistic regression compared HPV-related knowledge, vaccination-related perceptions, mandate support, healthcare utilization, sexual behaviors, and personal characteristics. Multinomial logistic regression was performed to assess the degree to which these factors were associated with perceived risk of cervical cancer diagnosis. Relative to those not diagnosed with HPV, participants who had more lifetime sex partners (P < 0.001), unprotected sex during last intercourse (P = 0.003), Pap test in the past year (P < 0.001), and perceived themselves to be at higher risk for cervical cancer (P < 0.001) were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with HPV. Those with HPV were more likely to support HPV vaccination mandates (P = 0.036) and have fewer friends vaccinated (P = 0.002). Participants who were uninsured (P = 0.011), diagnosed with HPV (P < 0.001), and had a family member (P < 0.001) or friend (P < 0.001) with cervical cancer were more likely to perceive themselves at risk for developing cervical cancer in the next 5 years. Findings indicate women with HPV, despite engaging in risky sexual behaviors, acknowledge their cervical cancer risk and may be strong advocates for HPV vaccination mandates to protect youth against this preventable virus.

Caregiver and adolescent factors associated with delayed completion of the three-dose human papillomavirus vaccination series

BACKGROUND

Delayed completion of human papillomavirus vaccination (4vHPV) series is common. We sought to identify factors associated with delay.

METHODS

This substudy was part of a large prospective, multi-site study recruiting 9-17 year old girls at the time of their third 4vHPV dose to assess immunogenicity associated with prolonged dosing intervals. At participating sites, parents/legal guardians (caregivers) of all enrolled girls (9-17 years old) and enrolled girls aged 14-17 years were approached for participation. Caregivers completed a questionnaire measuring adolescent and caregiver sociodemographic characteristics, caregiver attitudes and beliefs about on-schedule HPV vaccination and HPV vaccine safety, adolescent's health behaviors, barriers to accessing health care, provider office vaccination practices and a Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine (REALM). Participating girls completed a separate questionnaire measuring their attitudes and beliefs about on-schedule HPV vaccination and HPV vaccine safety. Delay was defined as receiving the third 4vHPV dose >12 months after the first. Bivariate, multinomial logistic regression and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors predicting delayed completion.

RESULTS

Questionnaires were completed by 482 caregivers and 386 adolescents; 422 caregivers completed a REALM. Delayed 4vHPV dosing occurred in most adolescents (67%). In multivariate analyses, predictors of delayed completion included caregiver demographic factors (self-reported black vs. white race and high school or less education vs. college or more) and an interaction between caregiver's inability to get an immunization appointment as soon as needed and adolescent's type of insurance.

CONCLUSIONS

Caregiver's race and educational level, accessibility of immunization appointments, and adolescent's insurance type were found to be related to delays in completion of 4vHPV, but caregiver or adolescent attitudes and beliefs about on-schedule HPV vaccination or HPV vaccine safety were not. Therefore, interventions to improve adherence to recommended vaccination schedules could benefit from a focus on improving access to immunizations. ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01030562).

Differences between vaccinated and unvaccinated women explain increase in non-vaccine-type human papillomavirus in unvaccinated women after vaccine introduction

The aim of this study was to determine whether an observed increase in non-vaccine-type human papillomavirus (HPV) in unvaccinated women during the first eight years after vaccine introduction may be explained by differences in demographics or sexual behaviors, instead of type replacement. We analyzed data from three cross-sectional surveillance studies of 13-26 year-old women (total N = 1180). For women recruited from a health department clinic, older age (OR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.2-1.6) and consistent condom use with main partner in the past 3 months (OR = 11.6, 95% CI: 3.4-40) were associated with being unvaccinated. For women recruited from a teen health center African American race (OR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.07-0.7) and having Medicaid health insurance (OR = 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1-0.7) were inversely associated with being unvaccinated. The observed increase in non-vaccine-type HPV prevalence in unvaccinated women may be explained by differences between unvaccinated and vaccinated women.

Does Self-Efficacy Mediate the Relationships Between Social-Cognitive Factors and Intentions to Receive HPV Vaccination Among Young Women?

Drawing upon health behavior change theories, the current study examined whether self-efficacy mediated relationships between social-cognitive factors (i.e., perceived risk, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, perceived severity, and cue to action) and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination intentions among college women. Unvaccinated women (N = 115) aged 18 to 25 years attending a Midwestern university completed an anonymous web-based survey assessing study variables. Correlational analyses and mediation analyses were conducted. Self-efficacy mediated relationships between two social-cognitive factors (i.e., perceived barriers to HPV vaccination-indirect effect = -.16, SE = .06, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [-.31, -.06]-and perceived risk of HPV-related conditions-indirect effect = .16, SE = .09, 95% CI = [.01, .37]) and HPV vaccination intentions but was unrelated to the other three social-cognitive factors. Based on these findings, future research should test whether increasing self-efficacy through education on risk of HPV-related conditions and reducing barriers to HPV vaccination improves vaccine uptake in college women.

Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Rates in Young Cancer Survivors

Purpose

Cancer survivors are at high risk for human papillomavirus (HPV)-related morbidities; we estimated the prevalence of HPV vaccine initiation in cancer survivors versus the US population and examined predictors of noninitiation.

Methods

Participants included 982 cancer survivors (9 to 26 years of age; 1 to 5 years postcompletion of therapy); we assessed HPV vaccine initiation, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, and vaccine-specific health beliefs; age-, sex-, and year-matched US population comparisons were from the National Immunization Survey-Teen and the National Health Interview Survey (2012-2015).

Results

The mean age at the time of the study was 16.3 ± 4.7 years; the mean time off therapy was 2.7 ± 1.2 years; participants were 55% male and 66% non-Hispanic white; 59% had leukemia/lymphoma. Vaccine initiation rates were significantly lower in cancer survivors versus the general population (23.8%; 95% CI, 20.6% to 27.0% v 40.5%; 95% CI, 40.2% to 40.7%; P < .001); survivors were more likely to be HPV vaccine-naïve than general population peers (odds ratio [OR], 1.72; 95% CI, 1.41 to 2.09; P < .001). Initiation in adolescent survivors (ages 13 to 17 years) was 22.0% (95% CI, 17.3% to 26.7%), significantly lower than population peers (42.5%; 95% CI, 42.2% to 42.8%; P < .001). Initiation in young adult survivors and peers (ages 18 to 26 years) was comparably low (25.3%; 95% CI, 20.9% to 29.7% v 24.2%; 95% CI, 23.6% to 24.9%). Predictors of noninitiation included lack of provider recommendation (OR, 10.8; 95% CI, 6.5 to 18.0; P < .001), survivors' perceived lack of insurance coverage for HPV vaccine (OR, 6.6; 95% CI, 3.9 to 11.0; P < .001), male sex (OR, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.7 to 4.8; P < .001), endorsement of vaccine-related barriers (OR, 2.7; 95% CI, 1.6 to 4.6; P < .001), and younger age (9 to 12 years; OR, 3.7; 95% CI, 1.8-7.6; P < .001; comparison, 13 to 17 years).

Conclusion

HPV vaccine initiation rates in cancer survivors are low. Lack of provider recommendation and barriers to vaccine receipt should be targeted in vaccine promotion efforts.

Facilitators and barriers to the acceptance of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among adolescent girls: a comparison between mothers and their adolescent daughters in Hong Kong

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to examine knowledge and attitude as facilitators and barriers to the acceptance of HPV vaccination for adolescent girls by mothers and adolescent girls.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey conducted in Hong Kong in January 2010. Adolescent girls aged 12-18, together with their mothers, were recruited to complete two separate questionnaires with similar questions.

RESULTS

A total of 170 mother-adolescent girl dyads were recruited. When the daughters and mothers were compared, the mothers were found to be more aware of "the risk of becoming infected with HPV through early sexual intercourse," while more daughters than mothers knew that "the HPV virus cannot be cured with antibiotics." Significantly more daughters perceived that they had a "chance of being infected with HPV and getting cervical cancer without the vaccine," while more mothers were concerned that "vaccinating for HPV will cause a girl to be stigmatized as promiscuous" and thought that their "adolescent daughters are too young to receive the HPV vaccine." The major predictive factor for the acceptance of the HPV vaccine among mothers was "The HPV vaccine is safe" (OR = 10.126, 95% CI 2.47-41.54). Among daughters who accepted the vaccine, the predictive factor was "The HPV vaccine can prevent most HPV infections" (OR = 6.274, 95% CI 1.93-20.42).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings provide healthcare professionals with a better understanding of the differences between mothers and adolescent girls in knowledge, attitude, and potential factors associated with acceptance of the HPV vaccine. Health professionals should promote the early prevention of HPV infection and eliminate the stigma surrounding HPV vaccination to increase its acceptance. The government should provide financial support for adolescent girls to receive the vaccination in school.

Development and validation of measures to evaluate adolescents' knowledge about human papillomavirus (HPV), involvement in HPV vaccine decision-making, self-efficacy to receive the vaccine and fear and anxiety

OBJECTIVES

We describe the development and validation of measures of human papillomavirus (HPV)/HPV vaccination knowledge, fear/anxiety about vaccination, involvement in HPV vaccine decision-making, and self-efficacy with regard to getting the vaccine, designed to evaluate the efficacy of an intervention to affect these domains (collectively termed the HAVIQ: HPV Adolescent Vaccine Intervention Questionnaire).

STUDY DESIGN

Literature search, cognitive interviews and cross-sectional survey.

METHODS

A literature search identified existing items that were modified for the present measures. Experts reviewed draft measures for face and content validity. Cognitive interviews with adolescents were also used to assess content validity. Adolescents completed the measures and an internal reliability analysis of each measure was performed.

RESULTS

The four experts concurred that the measures had face validity. Cognitive interviews identified items requiring refinement. Content validity was examined with ten experts and was deemed acceptable. There were 1800 adolescents who completed the measures; Cronbach's alpha was >0.6 for three of the four measures. The four final measures are brief, comprising 25 items in total.

CONCLUSIONS

The measures are robustly developed and validity-tested. The HAVIQ may be used in research settings to evaluate adolescents' knowledge and experiences of the process of HPV vaccination in a school-based vaccination programme.

Factors associated with parental reasons for "no-intent" to vaccinate female adolescents with human papillomavirus vaccine: National Immunization Survey - Teen 2008-2012

Background

1) To identify socio-demographic factors associated with parental “no-intent” for their 13–17 year old unvaccinated daughter to receive the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine series within the next twelve months, 2) to describe patterns in “no-intent” by socio-demographic factors, and 3) to identify socio-demographic factors associated with parental reasons for “no-intent”.

Methods

Data from 2008–2012 National Immunization Survey - Teen (NIS - Teen) were examined in this study. Parents with “no-intent” to vaccinate their daughters were asked to identify reasons for their decision. All responses were categorized into five domains identified as barriers to receive the HPV vaccine series: 1) Safety and Effectiveness Concerns; 2) Systemic Barriers; 3) Vaccine Misinformation; 4) Lack of Knowledge about the Vaccine; and 5) Socio-cultural Barriers. Multivariable logistic regression models were performed to address the study objectives.

Results

Number of people in the household, household income, mother’s age, education, health insurance, recommendation of a health care provider, and the survey year were significantly associated with parental “no-intent”. Race/ethnicity, mother’s education, marital status, recommendation of a health care provider, household income, age of the unvaccinated daughter, and the survey year, were significantly associated with one or more domains identified as barriers to receive the HPV vaccine.

Conclusions

This study identified sub-groups of parents across different socio-demographic factors with “no-intent” for their adolescent daughters to receive the HPV vaccine. Developing strategies that target educational tools towards the identified sub-groups of parents about the purpose, safety, and efficacy of the HPV vaccine, and HPV infection, may help increase HPV vaccine acceptance, initiation and completion rates.

Predictors of Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Initiation and Completion Among Latino Mothers of 11- to 17-Year-Old Daughters Living Along the Texas-Mexico Border

Few Texas Latino girls initiate and complete the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine series, but few studies have examined predictors of initiation and completion in this group. Mothers are crucial to vaccine uptake. Using self-reported data from mothers of unvaccinated girls (n = 317), we examined the association between predictors (HPV and HPV vaccine knowledge, vaccine self-efficacy) and outcomes (initiation and completion). Despite an increase in HPV and HPV vaccine knowledge from baseline to follow-up (n = 195), we found no association between the predictors and the outcomes. Findings showed that health insurance status and study group participation (Entre Madre e Hija program or brochure only) were associated with initiation and completion.

Distribution of Vaccine-Type Human Papillomavirus Does Not Differ by Race or Ethnicity Among Unvaccinated Young Women

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have demonstrated racial and ethnic differences in the distribution of human papillomavirus (HPV) types among adult women with cervical precancers. The aim of this study was to determine whether the distribution of vaccine-targeted HPV types varies by race/ethnicity among unvaccinated young women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A secondary analysis was performed using data from four studies of sexually experienced, unvaccinated, 13-26-year-old women. Participants completed surveys and provided a cervicovaginal swab for HPV DNA testing. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to examine whether race, ethnicity, and other factors were associated with type-specific HPV infection among the overall sample and among HPV-infected participants. Models controlled for age, HPV knowledge, sexual behaviors, substance use, and random study effect.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants (N = 841) was 19.3 years; 64.4% were black and 8.9% Hispanic. Black women were more likely than white women to be positive for ≥1 HPV type (odds ratio [OR] 1.83, 95% CI 1.30-2.58) and Hispanic women were less likely than non-Hispanic women to be positive for ≥1 HPV type (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.24-0.92). However, among all young women and HPV-infected women, neither race nor ethnicity was associated with positivity for HPV types targeted by the following vaccines: 2-valent (HPV16 and/or 18), 4-valent (HPV6, 11, 16, and/or 18), or 9-valent (HPV6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and/or 58).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of HPV types targeted by the 2-valent, 4-valent, and 9-valent vaccines did not differ by race or ethnicity among all and among HPV-infected women in this sample.

A brief information-motivation-behavioral skills intervention to promote human papillomavirus vaccination among college-aged women

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is prevalent among college-aged women. Although HPV vaccines decrease women’s risk for cervical cancer, the vaccination rates remain inadequate.

Objective

This study explored the utility of an information–motivation–behavioral skills (IMB) intervention in promoting HPV vaccination knowledge, motivation, and intentions among college-aged women.

Methods

In Spring/Fall 2012, 62 participants were randomly assigned to a single-session intervention or attention control and were assessed baseline, post-intervention, and at 1 month.

Results

The participants demonstrated adequate baseline vaccine knowledge, low HPV/cancer knowledge, and ambivalence about the vaccination. Post-intervention, the IMB arm demonstrated increased HPV/cancer and vaccination knowledge, motivation, and intentions. There were no group differences in vaccination at 1 month; however, the odds of wanting to get vaccinated increased sevenfold in the IMB arm.

Conclusion

These results provide preliminary support for an IMB-based intervention in increasing vaccination knowledge, motivation, and intentions among at-risk women. Future research examining the efficacy of longer trials with larger, diverse populations is warranted.

The role of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related stigma on HPV vaccine decision-making among college males

OBJECTIVE

The goals of the present study are (1) to identify sociodemographic and psychosocial predictors of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related stigma and (2) to examine the relationship between HPV-related stigma in predicting HPV vaccine decision-making among college males.

PARTICIPANTS

Six hundred and eighty college males aged 18-26 from 3 Canadian universities were recruited from September 2013 to April 2014.

METHODS

Participants completed a self-report survey assessing HPV-related stigma, psychosocial predictors of HPV-related stigma, and HPV vaccine decision-making. The results were analyzed using variance analyses and linear regressions.

RESULTS

Ethnicity, province of residence, and perceived severity of HPV were found to significantly influence HPV-related stigma. In addition, HPV-related stigma was higher in those unaware of the availability of the HPV vaccine for males.

CONCLUSIONS

Promotion efforts should concentrate on Asian minorities and should avoid HPV severity messaging, as these may lead to higher HPV-related stigma, which in turn may act as a barrier to vaccination.

Substantial Decline in Vaccine-Type Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Among Vaccinated Young Women During the First 8 Years After HPV Vaccine Introduction in a Community

BACKGROUND

 Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine effectiveness and herd protection are not well established in community settings. Our objective was to determine trends in vaccine-type HPV in young women during the 8 years after vaccine introduction, to assess changes in HPV prevalence and characterize herd protection in a community.

METHODS

 We recruited 3 samples of sexually experienced, 13-26-year-old adolescent girls and young women (hereafter women; N = 1180) from 2006-2014: before widespread vaccine introduction (wave 1) and 3 (wave 2) and 7 (wave 3) years after vaccine introduction. We determined the prevalence of vaccine-type HPV (HPV-6, -11, -16, and -18) among all, vaccinated, and unvaccinated women at waves 1, 2, and 3, adjusted for differences in participant characteristics, then examined whether changes in HPV prevalence were significant using inverse propensity score-weighted logistic regression.

RESULTS

 Vaccination rates increased from 0% to 71.3% across the 3 waves. Adjusted vaccine-type HPV prevalence changed from 34.8% to 8.7% (75.0% decline) in all women, from 34.9% to 3.2% (90.8% decline) in vaccinated women, and from 32.5% to 22.0% (32.3% decline) in unvaccinated women. Among vaccinated participants, vaccine-type HPV prevalence decreased significantly from wave 1 to wave 2 (adjusted odds ratio, 0.21; 95% confidence interval, .13-.34) and from wave 1 to wave 3 (0.06; .03-.13). The same decreases were also significant among unvaccinated participants (adjusted odds ratios, 0.44; [95% confidence interval, .27-.71] and 0.59; [.35-.98], respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

 The prevalence of vaccine-type HPV decreased >90% in vaccinated women, demonstrating high effectiveness in a community setting, and >30% in unvaccinated women, providing evidence of herd protection.

Effect of Educational Intervention on Cervical Cancer Prevention and Screening in Hispanic Women

To evaluate the effect of an educational intervention on four domains of health care utilization and cervical cancer prevention and screening in a Hispanic population. Data collected from a survey were used to design education strategies focused on four domains of interest. A second survey was conducted to measure the impact of the intervention. Following the intervention, respondents were more likely to have any knowledge of human papillomavirus (HPV). Respondents living in the United States (US) for <5 years were more likely to have had a Papanicolaou smear in the preceding 3 years (p = 0.0314), to report knowledge of HPV vaccination (p = 0.0258), and to be willing to vaccinate themselves (p = 0.0124) and their children (p = 0.0341) after the intervention. Educational interventions designed to meet the needs identified by the sample group led to an increase in HPV awareness throughout the entire population surveyed and an increase in health care service utilization and HPV vaccine acceptance for women living in the US for <5 years. These tools should be promoted to reduce the cervical cancer burden on vulnerable populations.

Health Belief Model Scale for Human Papilloma Virus and its Vaccination: Adaptation and Psychometric Testing

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To adapt and psychometrically test the Health Belief Model Scale for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and Its Vaccination (HBMS-HPVV) for use in a Turkish population and to assess the Human Papilloma Virus Knowledge score (HPV-KS) among female college students.

DESIGN

Instrument adaptation and psychometric testing study.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

The sample consisted of 302 nursing students at a nursing school in Turkey between April and May 2013.

INTERVENTIONS

Questionnaire-based data were collected from the participants.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Information regarding HBMS-HPVV and HPV knowledge and descriptive characteristic of participants was collected using translated HBMS-HPVV and HPV-KS. Test-retest reliability was evaluated and Cronbach α was used to assess internal consistency reliability, and exploratory factor analysis was used to assess construct validity of the HBMS-HPVV.

RESULTS

The scale consists of 4 subscales that measure 4 constructs of the Health Belief Model covering the perceived susceptibility and severity of HPV and the benefits and barriers. The final 14-item scale had satisfactory validity and internal consistency. Cronbach α values for the 4 subscales ranged from 0.71 to 0.78. Total HPV-KS ranged from 0 to 8 (scale range, 0-10; 3.80 ± 2.12).

CONCLUSION

The HBMS-HPVV is a valid and reliable instrument for measuring young Turkish women's beliefs and attitudes about HPV and its vaccination.

Factors Associated With HPV Vaccine Initiation, Vaccine Completion, and Accuracy of Self-Reported Vaccination Status Among 13- to 26-Year-Old Men

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination coverage in young men is suboptimal. The aims of this study were (a) to examine HPV vaccination and factors associated with HPV vaccination in men 13 to 26 years of age and (b) to examine and determine factors associated with accurate self-report of vaccination. Young men ( n = 400) recruited from a teen health center and a sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinic completed a survey. Accuracy was defined as correct report of at least one dose and number of doses. Mean age was 21.5 years, 104 (26.0%) received at least one vaccine dose and 49 (12.3%) received all three doses. Factors significantly associated with receipt of at least one dose in multivariable models included recruitment site (teen health center vs. STD clinic, adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.75), public versus other insurance (AOR = 2.12), and age (AOR = 0.68). Most young men accurately reported their vaccination status but accuracy of report differed by age: 50.6% of 14- to 18-year-olds, 75.9% of 19- to 21-year-olds, and 93.2% of 22- to 26-year-olds. Most (293, 73.3%) accurately reported number of doses received. Age was associated with accuracy of self-report of at least one vaccine dose (AOR = 1.42), while recruitment site (STD vs. teen health center, AOR = 2.56) and age (AOR = 1.44) were associated with accuracy of self-report of number of vaccine doses. In conclusion, HPV initiation and completion in this study sample were low. Teen health center attendance, public insurance, and younger age were associated with vaccine initiation; older age and STD clinic setting were associated with accurate vaccination self-report.

Human Papillomavirus Infection and Vaccination

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is an infection that can be sexually transmitted and result in health consequences including genital warts and cancers. Two vaccines, Gardasil® [Human Papillomavirus Quadrivalent (Types 6, 11, 16, and 18) Vaccine, Recombinant] and Cervarix™ [Human Papillomavirus Bivalent (Types 16 and 18) Vaccine], have been approved for the prevention of HPV and HPV-related diseases.

OBJECTIVES

To explore facilitators and barriers associated with HPV vaccine utilization and compliance regarding vaccine series completion in school-aged, adolescent, and young adult females in the United States; to discuss HPV infection and highlight the safety and efficacy of the HPV vaccine; and to illustrate delivery strategies that can improve immunization rates and review implications for healthcare providers.

METHODS

A literature review was performed using health-related online databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMED, Web of Science, EBSCOHost and Google Scholar) and archival searching to identify current vaccination rates and factors associated with vaccine uptake.

RESULTS

Despite the availability of vaccines that prevent cancer, acceptance and utilization rates of both HPV vaccines are less than recommended by the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices (ACIP). Some of the barriers to HPV vaccination include lack of provider recommendation, negative parent or patient attitudes and beliefs, cost, and missed clinical opportunities. The primary facilitator to HPV vaccination is a strong provider recommendation.

CONCLUSIONS

Healthcare providers can enhance HPV vaccine utilization by taking an active role with patients. Strategies include education and advocacy for receiving the vaccine, maximizing access to the HPV vaccine, and implementing new strategies for vaccine-delivery.

Preventing Cervical Cancer in the United States: Barriers and Resolutions for HPV Vaccination

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rates for preadolescent and adolescent girls in the United States are far behind those of other developed nations. These rates differ substantially by region and state, socioeconomic status, and insurance status. In parents and young women, a lack of awareness and a misperception of the risk of this vaccine drive low vaccination rates. In physicians, lack of comfort with discussion of sexuality and the perception that the vaccine should be delayed to a later age contribute to low vaccination rates. Patient- and physician-targeted educational campaigns, systems-based interventions, and school-based vaccine clinics offer a variety of ways to address the barriers to HPV vaccination. A diverse and culturally appropriate approach to promoting vaccine uptake has the potential to significantly improve vaccination rates in order to reach the Healthy People 2020 goal of over 80% vaccination in adolescent girls. This article reviews the disparities in HPV vaccination rates in girls in the United States, the influences of patients’, physicians’, and parents’ attitudes on vaccine uptake, and the proposed interventions that may help the United States reach its goal for vaccine coverage.

Developing a Tablet-Based Self-Persuasion Intervention Promoting Adolescent HPV Vaccination: Protocol for a Three-Stage Mixed-Methods Study

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers are a significant burden on the US health care system that can be prevented through adolescent HPV vaccination. Despite guidelines recommending vaccination, coverage among US adolescents is suboptimal particularly among underserved patients (uninsured, low income, racial, and ethnic minorities) seen in safety-net health care settings. Many parents are ambivalent about the vaccine and delay making a decision or talking with a provider about it. Self-persuasion—generating one’s own arguments for a health behavior—may be particularly effective for parents who are undecided or not motivated to make a vaccine decision.

Objective

Through a 3-stage mixed-methods protocol, we will identify an optimal and feasible self-persuasion intervention strategy to promote adolescent HPV vaccination in safety-net clinics.

Methods

In Stage 1, we will define content for a tablet-based self-persuasion app by characterizing (1) parents’ self-generated arguments through cognitive interviews conducted with parents (n=50) of patients and (2) parent-provider HPV vaccine discussions through audio recordings of clinic visits (n=50). In Stage 2, we will compare the effects of the four self-persuasion intervention conditions that vary by cognitive processing level (parents verbalize vs listen to arguments) and choice of argument topics (parents choose vs are assigned topics) on parental vaccine intentions in a 2 × 2 factorial design randomized controlled trial (n=160). This proof-of-concept trial design will identify which intervention condition is optimal by quantitatively examining basic self-persuasion mechanisms (cognitive processing and choice) and qualitatively exploring parent experiences with intervention tasks. In Stage 3, we will conduct a pilot trial (n=90) in the safety-net clinics to assess feasibility of the optimal intervention condition identified in Stage 2. We will also assess its impact on parent-provider discussions.

Results

This paper describes the study protocol and activities to date. Currently, we have developed the initial prototype of the tablet app for English- and Spanish-speaking populations, and completed Stage 1 data collection.

Conclusions

Our systematic collaboration between basic and applied behavioral scientists accelerates translation of promising basic psychological research into innovative interventions suitable for underserved, safety-net populations. At project’s end, we plan to have a feasible and acceptable self-persuasion intervention that can affect key cancer disparities in the United States through prevention of HPV-related cancers.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02537756 and http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02535845 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6e5XcOGXz and http://www.webcitation.org/6e5XfHoic, respectively).

The Student Human Papillomavirus Survey: Nurse-Led Instrument Development and Psychometric Testing to Increase Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Series Completion in Young Adults

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The Student Human Papillomavirus Survey (SHPVS) was developed to examine students' perceived benefits or barriers to human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination.

METHODS

Survey development included (a) 2-phase integrative literature reviews; (b) draft of survey items based on the literature; (c) critique of survey items by young adults, nursing and psychology faculty, and health care providers; and (d) pilot testing. The psychometric properties of the SHPVS were evaluated using classical item analysis and exploratory factor analysis (EFA) among a sample of 527 university students' ages 18-24 years.

RESULTS

The estimated Cronbach's alpha for the SHPVS is .74.

CONCLUSIONS

The SHPVS is a measure of young adults HPV perceived vulnerability, perceived severity, perceived barriers, and perceived benefits of HPV vaccination.

Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Uptake After a Tailored, Online Educational Intervention for Female University Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Educational interventions may be a strategy to increase human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among female university students, but studies to date have shown mixed results. This study evaluated the effect of MeFirst, an individually tailored, online educational intervention, on HPV vaccine-related knowledge, vaccination intention, and uptake among previously unvaccinated female university students.

METHODS

All female students aged 18-26 years who reported being unvaccinated against HPV at a midwestern university were invited via email to enroll. Participants completed an online survey that assessed baseline HPV vaccine-related knowledge, attitudes and vaccination intention. Participants (n = 661) were then randomized to receive either an educational website automatically tailored to their baseline survey responses (MeFirst intervention) or a standard CDC information factsheet on HPV vaccine (control). Vaccine uptake and repeat knowledge and attitude measures were assessed with online surveys 3 months following the intervention and analyzed using logistic regression models.

RESULTS

HPV vaccine uptake was similar in both the MeFirst and control groups at 3 months following the intervention (p = 0.98). Three months after the intervention, the proportion of participants with high knowledge regarding HPV vaccination increased from baseline (32% to 50%; p < 0.0001) but the proportion with favorable intention was unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that an individually tailored, online educational tool had similar effects as a nontailored factsheet on HPV-related knowledge, intention to HPV undergo vaccination, and HPV vaccine uptake among previously unvaccinated female university students.