Review of Chinese young adults' human papillomavirus knowledge, attitudes, and vaccine acceptability

Abstract

Objective The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is effective in reducing HPV‐related disease. The 2‐, 4‐, and 9‐valent HPV vaccines have been approved by the Chinese FDA since 2016; however, factors associated with HPV vaccine acceptability and use in Chinese young adults remain unclear. Design and Sample We conducted a systematic review to analyze factors affecting HPV vaccine acceptability and use in Chinese young adults. A comprehensive search of databases (e.g., PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO) was conducted, and articles between 2011 and 2020 were included. Results Seventeen studies were included in the final review, and eleven were conducted in mainland China and six in Hong Kong. All studies reported low level of HPV‐related knowledge. Better knowledge, more concerns about HPV‐associated diseases, and being female were found associated with higher vaccine acceptability. The vaccine cost and safety were the major concerns for vaccination. Conclusions Findings suggested a low level of HPV‐related knowledge and suboptimal vaccination rate in Chinese young adults. Theory‐based interventions addressing knowledge and other influencing factors and involving both males and females are urgently needed to increase vaccine acceptability and use in Chinese young adults.

Sources of Information and Communication About HPV Among Chinese Students Attending U.S. Colleges: Implications for Culturally Appropriate Strategies

“…However, social media platforms could offer an optimal platform for HPV instruction and interaction using reliable professionals to facilitate discussions. Culturally tailored interventions for Chinese students should integrate popular Chinese-based social media platforms such as WeChat and Sina Weibo to reach out to more participants (Ou et al, 2021). Moving beyond China, platforms such as LINE can be used in Taiwan and Japan.…”