Parents’ Intentions of Human Papillomavirus Vaccination for Students in Vietnam: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

BackgroundHuman papillomavirus (HPV) is known as a common agent of sexually transmitted infections and cervical cancer. One of the most effective ways for parents to protect their children from HPV is by ensuring they receive vaccinations.AimTo determine the percentage of parents who intend to vaccinate their children against HPV and associated factors.MethodA cross-sectional study was conducted on 365 parents who had children attending high school in Ha Tinh province, Vietnam, from April to May 2023, using stratified and random sampling methods. Data were collected by a self-administered questionnaire designed based on previous studies and the domains of the Theory of Planned Behavior and Health Belief Model. A multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine the association between several factors and vaccination status.ResultA total of 365 participants took part in the study. The rate of parents intending to vaccinate their children against HPV was 55.9%. Knowledge about the HPV disease and vaccine (all P < .05) and the attitude of parents ( P < .001) were determined as the motivation factors that affect the intention to vaccinate children against HPV.ConclusionMany parents still do not have the intention to vaccinate children against HPV. Health education communication should focus on the motivation factors, not only to improve the parents’ knowledge and perspective but also to increase the coverage of the vaccine to prevent cancers caused by HPV.