Engaging new partners in human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine promotion: Considerations for training private practice dental professionals in HPV vaccine promotion

Abstract

Objectives: With rates of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination remaining low and rates of oropharyngeal cancer rising, engaging new partners to promote vaccination is necessary. We aimed to identify dental hygienists' and dentists' knowledge about HPV, the HPV vaccine, and preferences for continuing education. Methods: This mixed-methods study recruited dental hygienists and dentists working in private practice in Iowa to participate in a mailed cross-sectional survey (dental hygienists) and qualitative telephone interviews (dental hygienists and dentists). Survey and interview topics included existing knowledge about HPV vaccination, HPV vaccination promotion efforts, barriers to HPV vaccine promotion, and preferences for continuing education (CE). Results: We received 470 surveys from dental hygienists (response rate = 22.6%) and interviewed 19 dental hygienists and 20 dentists. Vaccine efficacy and safety, along with communication strategies, were key topics of interest for CE. Dental hygienists' most commonly identified barriers were lack of knowledge (67%) and low comfort levels (42%). Conclusions: Knowledge was identified as a key barrier to providing a strong recommendation for HPV vaccination and convenience was the most important factor to consider for any future CE. Our team is in the process of designing a CE course based on this information to help dental professionals effectively engage in HPV vaccine promotion in their practices.

Parents' perspectives on dental team as advisors to promote HPV vaccination among Spanish adolescents

“…Given HPV's association with oropharyngeal cancers, our study highlights a noteworthy knowledge gap among parents, with only 32.9% informed about the link between HPV and oropharyngeal carcinoma. Misconceptions and lack of information pose challenges for preventive medicine, emphasizing the dental team's potential role in enhancing health literacy (18–21). Encouragingly, our study also notes positive parental support for gender‐neutral vaccination, despite limited knowledge about the vaccine's role, deviating from trends seen in other studies (35).…”

“…While dental students have shown a willingness to talk about HPV with patients, they still harbor reservations due to perceived gaps in information (20). Parents have demonstrated favorable attitudes toward dentists and dental hygienists promoting the HPV vaccine and delivering HPV education during dental visits (21). However, it is imperative to acknowledge the existence of a range of significant barriers, the awareness of which is essential for parents to perceive these healthcare providers as optimal advocates.…”