BOA2
UK health professionals' attitudes and knowledge regarding human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination
Tom G Hopkins, Nick J Wood, Robert M West, Jonathan C Darling
University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
Background
Vaccines developed to prevent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection have the potential to make a dramatic impact on cervical-cancer-related morbidity and mortality. However, these benefits will only be realised if vaccine uptake is widespread. Several studies have reported that recommendation by health professionals is a key determinant of vaccine acceptance by the public. This study aimed to sample the views of a cohort of doctors most likely to have a role in discussing and advising patients on vaccine-related issues.
Method
An online, invitation-only questionnaire was distributed to 983 doctors from three professional groups: general practitioners (GPs), paediatricians and obstetrician/gynaecologists. The questionnaire responses were explored for natural clusters using latent class analysis (LatentGOLD v4.0). Grouping responders into clusters allowed attitude traits to be identified.
Results
The majority of doctors were in favour of an NHS-funded national vaccination programme. Almost 90% supported vaccination of girls as early as ages 11 to 13. However, less than 70% felt willing to recommend vaccination for under-16s based on their current levels of knowledge. Latent class analysis demonstrated that doctor’s self-rated knowledge of the HPV vaccine was an important determinant of willingness to recommend vaccination. Younger, less-experienced doctors were also less likely to be willing to recommend vaccination.
Conclusions
There is widespread support for vaccination. Information provision to doctors will be important in maximising clinician confidence in recommending immunisation.
