Human papillomavirus vaccine intent and uptake among female college students.
OBJECTIVE
To examine human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine intent and the effect of an educational intervention on vaccine uptake among female college students.


METHODS
Females aged 18 to 26 attending a university health service gynecology clinic (n = 256).


METHODS
Participants were randomized to receive either HPV-specific education with a mailed reminder or standard care. Predictors of HPV vaccine intent and uptake at 6 months following enrollment were identified.


RESULTS
At baseline, 41% intended to undergo HPV vaccination. Participants who were currently sexually active and lacked supplemental health insurance had decreased intent. Perceived parental approval regarding HPV vaccination, perceived vulnerability to HPV infection, and belief in health benefits of HPV vaccine were associated with increased intent. HPV vaccine uptake was low (5.5%) and did not differ by study group. However, baseline intent was significantly associated with HPV vaccine uptake.


CONCLUSIONS
Interventions to increase HPV vaccine uptake in college students should address HPV-related beliefs and broader barriers to vaccination.
Section of Comparative Effectiveness Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, USA. divya.patel@yale.edu
Divya A
DA
Patel
Melissa
M
Zochowski
Stephanie
S
Peterman
Amanda F
AF
Dempsey
Susan
S
Ernst
Vanessa K
VK
Dalton
D000293:Adolescent; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D033182:Intention; D008824:Michigan; D053918:Papillomavirus Vaccines / Q000191:economics; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D013333:Student Health Services; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D014495:Universities; D055815:Young Adult
D053918:Papillomavirus Vaccines