How does objective and subjective human papillomavirus knowledge affect information-seeking intentions and source preferences?

This study examines the effects of objective (factual information) and subjective knowledge (an individual's self-assessment of how much knowledge they have) on information-seeking intentions and source preferences. It explores the human papillomavirus (HPV) knowledge inequalities in groups of young adults age 18-26 years with and without vaccinations and diagnosis, and different demographics/socio-economic and perceptions of health status. Higher subjective HPV knowledge leads to greater information-seeking intentions from family/friends and mass media but not from health professionals and the Internet. Objective HPV knowledge did not matter for information seeking. The important role of demographics/socio-economic and perceived health status is also discussed.