Factors that influence caregivers’ and adolescents’ views and practices regarding human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination for adolescents: a qualitative evidence synthesis
Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in adolescents provides a powerful tool for preventing cervical cancer in women and other HPV‐associated diseases in people of all genders. HPV vaccines have been progressively introduced in many countries. However, worldwide, many adolescents do not receive HPV vaccination, for various reasons. The HPV vaccine might be costly or unavailable, healthcare systems might lack capacity for its delivery, or adolescent health might not be prioritised. Some caregivers and adolescents may not accept available HPV vaccines and vaccination services.
We currently lack a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence HPV vaccination views and practices, and why some caregivers and adolescents may be less accepting of the vaccine. Qualitative research can contribute to this understanding and help inform policy and practice, including the development of more relevant, acceptable and effective interventions to promote public acceptance and uptake of HPV vaccination in adolescents.
This qualitative evidence synthesis supplements a Cochrane review of the effectiveness of interventions to improve uptake of adolescent vaccination, including HPV vaccination.