Acceptance of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine Among Latino Parents

Cervical cancer occurs more frequently among Hispanic women than non-Hispanic white women, and is caused by infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). The new HPV vaccine offers protection against HPV infection, however, uptake of the vaccine is reported to be low in certain groups, including Hispanics. Little is known about Hispanic parents' willingness to vaccinate their daughters for HPV.

Eight focus groups were conducted with 43 parents (9 men and 34 women) of daughters ages 9-14. Questions addressed knowledge of HPV, acceptability and intention to vaccinate daughters, and perceived facilitators and barriers to vaccination. A short quantitative questionnaire was administered to collect information on vaccine uptake and participant demographics. Participants were ages 25 to 55 years and were primarily Mexican immigrants. Participants lacked knowledge about HPV and the vaccine. Nearly one-third had never heard of either HPV or the vaccine. One-half had received the vaccine for their daughter(s) and 37% of those who had not receive it reported being likely to get it in the future. Participants who knew that the vaccine can prevent cervical cancer or whose doctor had recommended vaccination were motivated to get the vaccine. Some participants expressed concerns about long-term health effects (such as problems with fertility), and fears that the vaccine will activate female hormones and lead to early puberty. Many participants desired for more information about the vaccine and its health effects. Findings from this project will be used to develop a culturally appropriate survey on attitudes, beliefs and acceptability of the HPV vaccine.