Predictors of Human Papillomavirus Vaccine uptake or intent among parents of preadolescents and adolescents

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to examine predictors of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine uptake or intent among parents of pre-adolescents and adolescents.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among parents of girls aged 9 to 18 years, visiting two primary care clinics in central Texas from September to November 2015. Pearson’s product-moment correlation procedures and path analyses based on Health Belief Model were performed.

Results: Path analysis showed that provider recommendation for HPV vaccination (β = 0.37; p < .001) and perceived HPV vaccine harm (β = -0.48; p < .001) had statistically significant direct effects on HPV vaccine uptake or intent. The perceived HPV vaccine effectiveness was directly influenced by HPV knowledge (β = 0.39; p < .001), empowerment in parent-provider relationships (β = 0.30; p = .006) and parental college education (β = 0.23; p = .039).}

Conclusions: Together with parental empowerment fostering an equal partnership with providers, targeted education to improve parental HPV knowledge may convince them of the HPV vaccine effectiveness. This, in turn, may help them put the perceived HPV vaccine harm in proper perspective and allow them to make informed decisions regarding the timely HPV vaccination of their children. Because provider recommendation is one of the most important contributing factors for HPV vaccine uptake or intent, parental education and recommendations from nurses will help reduce the knowledge gaps and empower parents to make the timely decisions to vaccinate their children.