Vaccines: Pediatric Oncology Providers’ HPV Vaccine Knowledge, Attitude, Self-Efficacy, and Practice after Communication Training: A Comparison with a National Survey (Grimes)

Rejane A. Teixeira ,Allison Grimes,Leanne Embry,Christine Aguilar, L. Aubree Shay

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations prevent HPV infection and related cancers. Despite being at higher risk of secondary cancers linked to HPV, childhood cancer survivors (CCS) are under-vaccinated. This study aimed to compare pediatric oncology providers’ knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy, and practices regarding HPV vaccination among those who participated in a multilevel educational HPV vaccine program with those of a national sample of oncology providers. Methods: Between February and March 2023, 39 providers from five pediatric oncology clinics in Texas completed online surveys, assessing knowledge about CCS risk for HPV-related cancers, attitudes towards the HPV vaccine, and confidence in recommending the vaccine to CCS. The results were compared with a national survey of providers conducted in 2019 (n = 195). Results: The findings showed that providers who participated in our program had greater knowledge of CCS increased risk for HPV-related cancers (96% vs. 38%; p < 0.001); greater confidence in discussing and recommending the HPV vaccine (100% vs. 66%, p < 0.001) and addressing parental concerns (100% vs. 69%, p < 0.001); and a more positive attitude about oncology providers than general pediatricians, recommending (96% vs. 71%; p = 0.006) and administering the HPV vaccine to CCS (96% vs. 53%, p < 0.001). Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of educating oncology providers about the increased risk of CCS and improving their self-efficacy to recommend the HPV vaccine and promote vaccination in the oncology setting.
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