Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Awareness Survey for At-Risk African American Women

Background. Human Papilloma Virus is a sexually transmitted virus that causes cervical cancer, most anogenital cancers and a subset of head and neck cancers. Since the release of the HPV vaccine by the Food and Drug administration, it has been observed that females in the age group that the vaccine targets and parents of females in the age group that the vaccine targets are reluctant to receive the vaccine. In fact, only 20% of at-risk women have received the vaccine. Objective. The intent of this research is to determine the general population's knowledge of HPV and the HPV vaccine. In addition, we would like to evaluate perception of the vaccine by identifying the specific reasons why people choose not to be vaccinated or have their child vaccinated. Methods. Our proposed study is an anonymous survey, which contains questions specifically aimed at determing the public's knowledge and perception of HPV and the HPV vaccine. The survey will be administered, face to face, at local community centers (such as Minority Development). Participants who have agreed to complete the survey will be assisted by a facilitator (one of the study investigators) in order to ensure that the survey is completed. Logistic regression analyses will be performed to determine variables that may be associated with the intent to vaccinate and intent not to vaccinate. Results. Results are expected December 2009. Discussion. Analysis of results will be completed by March of 2010. The authors will then seek publication by June of 2010. Grants. This study was made possible through the Kenyon Grant administered by NSU.