Influences on decision making for the HPV vaccine among Blacks and Hispanics in New York City

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the main cause of cervical neoplasia worldwide. An HPV vaccine has been available since 2006. Understanding what influences the decision to receive the vaccine is critical. A community-based sample of 250 people aged ≥18 years were recruited in New York City between 10/2006 and 9/2007. The sample was 34% women, 48% Black, 39% Hispanic, and 6% White; the mean age was 39.8 years. 35% had heard of the HPV vaccine (52% heard from television and 13% from a doctor or other health care provider). The most commonly reported influences on the decision to get vaccinated included unknown long term side effects (51%), fear of bad side effects (50%), short term side effects (48%), vaccine safety (46%), scientific evidence/governmental support of the vaccine (44%), danger related to vaccines in general (40%), pain or discomfort from shots (39%), physician or nurse recommendation (37%), and STD-related stigma (32%). When asked a hypothetical question about vaccination of a daughter or son, 68% and 64% would try to get their child vaccinated, respectively. These preliminary data suggest that the HPV vaccine will be a highly sought after vaccine. However, there are factors that might deter people from getting the vaccine, including concern about side effects, vaccine safety, and STD-related stigma. Future studies using a community-based participatory research approach should examine whether these influences are specific to the HPV vaccine or apply to vaccines in general and whether the same influences are salient for parental decision making.