Addressing HPV vaccine myths: practical information for healthcare providers

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine uptake consistently lags behind that of other adolescent vaccines. In 2017, uptake of a single HPV vaccine dose and HPV vaccine series completion was 66% and 49%, respectively, compared to uptake of tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis vaccine (89%) and quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine (85%). Reasons for not vaccinating adolescents again HPV are varied, and in many cases, are rooted in commonly spread myths and misperceptions about the vaccine. In this review, we address five key myths-HPV vaccination is not effective at preventing cancer; Pap smears are sufficient to prevent cervical cancer; HPV vaccination is not safe; HPV vaccination is not needed since most infections are naturally cleared by the immune system; 11-12 years of age is too young to vaccinate. For each myth, we summarize the scientific evidence refuting the myth and provide speaking prompts for healthcare professionals to communicate about HPV vaccination.

Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Acceptability and Campaign Message Preferences Among African American Parents: a Qualitative Study

“…Specifically, African Americans, who have higher rates on underlying chronic conditions, are more likely to be hospitalized and die from COVID-19 compared to non-Hispanic Whites [12,21]. A consequence of structural racism and the burdens of social, economic, and environmental injustices have further contributed to widening disparities [4]. For example, African Americans represent a higher percentage of front-line workers that increase virus exposure risk while having lower access to quality healthcare [21].…”

“…HPV vaccination is more effective when administered to younger adolescents and may be especially beneficial for populations who experience a disproportionate disease burden. Delayed vaccination may also be due to parents associating HPV vaccination with adolescent sexual activity, even though they acknowledge the importance of protecting children from HPV-related infection [4]. Delayed vaccination may lead to missed opportunities for cancer prevention.…”

“…Vaccine decision-making is complex, with numerous factors that contribute to vaccine acceptance such as concerns of safety and side effects, linkage with sexual activity, and a general limited knowledge of HPV and HPV vaccines [3]. Prior literature has demonstrated that many parents do not believe their children to be vulnerable to HPV infection, citing that their children are too young/not sexually active and do not need vaccination [4]. Furthermore, HPV vaccination is often erroneously associated with cervical cancer exclusively.…”

Taking steps to slow the upswing in oral and pharyngeal cancers

“…One study found 5 major false beliefs parents hold about HPV vaccine 9 vaccinate. There is some evidence that if clinicians actively engage with parents about these concerns and address them head on, same-day vaccination rates can improve.…”

There’s Much Yet to be Done: Diverse Perspectives on HPV Vaccination

“…One paper reports on a systematic review of literature on the determinants of vaccine hesitancy in Europe, 34 and another offers practical guidance to HCPs in how to refute HPV vaccine myths. 35 Meanwhile, a commentary summarizes consensus messages to strengthen parental confidence in HPV vaccination that were generated at the U.S. National HPV Vaccination Roundtable meetings. 36 Other papers address provider, parent, and patient issues specific to understudied countries, such as China, India, and Italy, as well as areas of vaccine hesitancy and/or low vaccination uptake in the U.S. and Canada.…”