Using the health belief model to explore female's perceptions of male HPV vaccination

Background: Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection. The HPV vaccination is an effective method of preventing cervical cancer and genital warts. The present study examined females' perceptions of male HPV vaccination. Methods: Participants were females (N = 306) from one Midwestern university. Results: Results indicated significant differences in perceived benefits to male HPV vaccination students' based on grade and knowing a male/female that had the vaccine. No significant differences in perceived barriers were found in the study. Conclusions: These findings should be considered when developing programs aimed at educating students on the male HPV vaccine. The role of females in increasing male HPV vaccination rates should be considered. Keywords: HPV, vaccination, Health Belief Model, students
INTRODUCTION ElectDespite the controversy surrounding vaccinations, it is difficult to argue against the improvements in health resulting from vaccinations worldwide. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) named vaccinations [...]