Examining HPV vaccination behavior among young adults: Insights from applying the Health Belief Model

by Oluwafemifola Oyedeji, Kristina W. Kintziger, Cary M. Springer, Samantha Ehrlich, Jill Maples, Justin Gatwood, Cristina S. Barroso

Background

Despite evidence-based recommendations for HPV vaccination, uptake among young adults is suboptimal. Limited research has explored factors that may influence HPV vaccination among young adults, as well as associated promotion and informational preferences in this group. This study aimed to examine factors associated with HPV vaccination among young adults and preferences for HPV vaccine information and promotion.

Methodology

This study utilized a cross-sectional design to examine factors related to HPV vaccination among young adults on a university campus in Tennessee. Data were collected via an online survey administered to students, aged 18–26 years, from March–May 2023. Study measures included sociodemographic characteristics, health/healthcare-related factors, and perception-related measures. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

Out of 402 participants that completed the survey, 209 reported being vaccinated against HPV. In the adjusted model, variables associated with HPV vaccination were perceived risk (adjusted OR [aOR] = 1.12; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.05, 1.20), perceived barriers (aOR = 0.73; 95% CI: 0.66, 0.81), higher HPV knowledge (aOR = 1.17; 95% CI: 1.03, 1.33), and receipt of healthcare provider recommendations (aOR = 12.90; 95% CI: 7.08, 23.51).

Conclusions

Study findings suggest that those who are vaccinated were more likely to report receiving healthcare provider recommendations, low perceived barriers, higher HPV knowledge and perceived risk. Future HPV vaccination promotion efforts for young adults may consider increasing HPV vaccine knowledge and awareness, addressing barriers, and strengthening provider recommendations.