Improving HPV-Related Oropharyngeal Cancer Knowledge and HPV Vaccination Rates via Virtual Workshops

Abstract

Objective: To validate the efficacy of a virtual, interdisciplinary workshop in improving HPV knowledge, and vaccination practices among primary care and dental trainees.

Methods: A virtual platform was utilized to hold HPV educational workshops with primary care and dental trainees. Online surveys were distributed before and after the 1-h interactive workshop, led by otolaryngology residents. Surveys included the workshop's impact on (a) improving knowledge of HPV-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) and (b) affecting change in HPV vaccination practices. The vaccination rates of trainees were recorded prior to and after workshop attendance.

Results: After the workshop, participants demonstrated significantly improved scores related to knowledge of HPV in the head and neck (p = 0.003) and showed an increased comfort level with counseling on HPV vaccination (p = 0.002). Respondents were also more aware that the HPV vaccine is approved to prevent OPSCC (61% vs. 95%, p < 0.05). Ninety-seven percent of respondents stated that the workshop changed their HPV vaccination practices, and 95% of those not fully vaccinated stated they would now be more likely to receive the vaccine themselves. There was a significant increase in the average number of HPV vaccines administered at the studied trainee clinic, from 16.83 vaccines/month to 37.6 vaccines/month (percent increase = 123%) in 5 months following the workshop (p = 0.002).

Conclusion: The present interactive virtual workshop demonstrates efficacy in improving HPV-related knowledge and vaccination practices among trainees. The virtual nature of the course facilitates knowledge transfer and can be used to foster multi-institutional partnerships regarding medical education and vaccination efforts.

Level of evidence: 4 Laryngoscope, 134:3096-3101, 2024.

Keywords: HPV; HPV vaccine; trainee education; virtual workshop.

Figure 1.

Number of HPV vaccines administered per month at the Internal Medicine clinic, where the attendees of the workshop provide primary care. The workshop took place with the Internal Medicine trainees in the last two months of 2020.