Human Papillomavirus knowledge, use, and barriers among California women, 2009

Background: The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common cause of cervical cancer. Approximately 20 million people in the United States (U.S.) are infected with HPV. An HPV vaccine that would protect against the main types of HPV associated with cervical cancer was approved for females ages 9-26. However, less than a third of the general US population has heard of HPV with even lower awareness among young women.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine California women's awareness, use, and barriers to the HPV vaccine.

Method: Women ages 18 and older throughout California completed a telephone health survey. Differences between groups were evaluated using Chi Square statistics.

Results: About 81% of women, ages 18-26, reported being aware of HPV vaccines. Women, who were aware of HPV vaccines, were more likely to have insurance and higher income. Of women who knew of HPV vaccines, 25.0% reported having obtained at least one vaccination in 2009 compared to 8.6% in 2007. There were no significant differences of reported HPV vaccination by poverty level or insurance. The top three barriers to HPV vaccine use were: doctor did not recommend vaccine (24.5%), safety concerns (23.4%), and lack of need for vaccine (16.9%).

Conclusion: Although women, ages 18-26, reported high awareness of HPV vaccines lower levels of awareness were found among low-income and uninsured women. Educational materials on HPV and HPV vaccination, containing information that addresses potential barriers to vaccination need to be effectively targeted, to improve awareness and vaccine coverage.