Use of multimedia as an educational tool to improve human papillomavirus vaccine acceptability--a pilot study

Abstract

Objective: To determine, through a pilot study, whether use of a video-based educational tool can influence overall human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine acceptability, views on vaccine mandates, school vaccination, and acceptable age for vaccination.

Methods: Written surveys addressing HPV knowledge and vaccine acceptability were administered to study participants from January to March 2007. An initial 32-question survey was completed, followed by an 8-minute educational video, and a post-video assessment.

Results: Out of 256 subjects, 73.0% watched the video and completed all surveys. Eighty percent of the subjects had heard of HPV, while 65.0% knew, prior to viewing the video, that the vaccine was available. Individual vaccine acceptability increased from 66.7% to 78.0% after the video (p=.0014). Prior to the video, 54.8% of subjects supported mandatory HPV vaccination, with 51.1% supporting school vaccination, and 66.7% accepting vaccination if it were free. After the video, these percentages increased to 72.6% (p<.0001), 65.1% (p<.0001) and 86.6% (p<.0001) respectively. Initially, 56.5% of subjects would vaccinate their child at 15 years of age or younger. After the video, 94.1% approved of vaccination from age 9 (p<.0001). Secondary analysis revealed Hispanics, African Americans, and lower income families were more likely to accept HPV vaccination after the video. A perception that vaccination promotes sex, and whether or not participants talk to their children about sex, did not affect acceptability.

Conclusion: Using an educational video significantly increased overall HPV vaccine acceptability and acceptance in younger age groups. This may be an effective means of increasing awareness and acceptability of HPV vaccination.