Use of multimedia as an educational tool to improve human papillomavirus vaccine acceptability--a pilot study

To determine, through a pilot study, whether use of a video-based educational tool can influence overall human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine acceptability, views on vaccine mandates, school vaccination, and acceptable age for vaccination.

Written surveys addressing HPV knowledge and vaccine acceptability were administered to study participants from January to March 2007. An initial 32-question survey was completed, followed by an 8-minute educational video, and a post-video assessment.

Out of 256 subjects, 73.0% watched the video and completed all surveys. Eighty percent of the subjects had heard of HPV, while 65.0% knew, prior to viewing the video, that the vaccine was available. Individual vaccine acceptability increased from 66.7% to 78.0% after the video (p=.0014). Prior to the video, 54.8% of subjects supported mandatory HPV vaccination, with 51.1% supporting school vaccination, and 66.7% accepting vaccination if it were free. After the video, these percentages increased to 72.6% (p<.0001), 65.1% (p<.0001) and 86.6% (p<.0001) respectively. Initially, 56.5% of subjects would vaccinate their child at 15 years of age or younger. After the video, 94.1% approved of vaccination from age 9 (p<.0001). Secondary analysis revealed Hispanics, African Americans, and lower income families were more likely to accept HPV vaccination after the video. A perception that vaccination promotes sex, and whether or not participants talk to their children about sex, did not affect acceptability.

Using an educational video significantly increased overall HPV vaccine acceptability and acceptance in younger age groups. This may be an effective means of increasing awareness and acceptability of HPV vaccination.