Using Community Engagement to Develop a Web-Based Intervention for Latinos about the HPV Vaccine

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Communication
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is common, with Hispanic women experiencing higher rates of invasive cervical cancer in the U.S.
• Targeted interventions are needed to boost HPV vaccination rates in high-risk Hispanic populations.
• Existing web-based HPV information resources require adaptation for cultural relevance and accessibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To modify a previously developed web-based intervention for human papillomavirus (HPV) and HPV vaccination.
• To enhance the intervention's usability and effectiveness for the Latino population.
• To prepare for a randomized trial assessing the modified intervention's impact on HPV vaccination attitudes and uptake.

Main Methods:

• A community-oriented approach was used for intervention modification.
• Feedback was gathered from a community advisory committee and focus groups within the Latino population.
• The intervention was tailored based on identified themes and community-specific barriers.

Main Results:

• Key themes included the need for basic HPV and vaccination information.
• Participants desired a less clinical presentation and culturally relevant content.
• Specific barriers faced by the Latino community were identified for incorporation.

Conclusions:

• The modified web-based intervention addresses specific informational and cultural needs of the Latino community regarding HPV vaccination.
• This tailored approach aims to reduce concerns and improve HPV vaccine uptake.
• The intervention has the potential to serve as a valuable resource for educating Latinos about HPV and vaccination.