Using The Health Belief Model to Explore Female's Perceptions of Male HPV Vaccination

Background: Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection. The HPV vaccination is an effective method of preventing cervical cancer and genital warts. The present study examined females’ perceptions of male HPV vaccination. Methods: Participants were females (N = 306) from one Midwestern university. Results: Results indicated significant differences in perceived benefits to male HPV vaccination students’ based on grade and knowing a male/female that had the vaccine. No significant differences in perceived barriers were found in the study. Conclusions: These findings should be considered when developing programs aimed at educating students on the male HPV vaccine. The role of females in increasing male HPV vaccination rates should be considered.