Attitudes surrounding implementation of the HPV vaccine for males among primary care providers serving large minority populations

Abstract

Background: Minority populations are disproportionally affected by human papilloma virus (HPV) infection. We examined the attitudes of primary care providers serving large minority populations towards the implementation of the HPV vaccine for males in their practices.

Design: Cross-sectional survey of randomly selected primary care providers in Brooklyn, N.Y.

Results: Ninety-three eligible providers were surveyed, of whom 62% were pediatricians. Sixty-two percent of all participants reported that they were very likely or will definitely be offering the vaccine to their male patients. The rate was higher among providers who reported higher numbers of minority patient population and who acknowledged high risk among their patient population.

Conclusions: Primary care providers included in the study were likely to report incorporation of the HPV vaccine for males as part of their regular clinical practice. Their adoption and dissemination of the vaccine will be a significant factor in determining whether its full benefits are achieved.