Factors Protecting Male and Female Adolescents in Mexico From Human Papillomavirus Infection

Adolescents may be infected with human papillomavirus (HPV) during their first sexual relationship. Persistent infections in adulthood may result in associated cancers among both women and men. This study explored condom use action plans, its influence on sexual activity in adolescents, and associated HPV protective behavior.

A descriptive correlational design was used. A convenience sample including adolescents ( N =313; male n = 171, female n = 142), aged 15 to 17 years, attending one of three public high schools in Mexico was recruited. Self-report structured questionnaires were used to assess sociodemographics, sexual behavior, and HPV protective behavior.

Self-reported HPV knowledge among Mexican adolescents was low. Adolescents ( n = 81, 25.9%) self-reported sexual experience. Comparisons of adolescents by self-reported sexual experience identified significant differences, including higher condom use self-efficacy, sexual rights knowledge, a condom use action plan, and greater interpersonal influence on HPV protective behavior among those who had sexual experience. Significant factors predicting HPV protective behavior included self-reported number of sexual partners, condom use in past 3 months, and having a condom use action plan.

An intervention targeting adolescents should encourage adolescents to develop their own cognitive processes, thereby facilitating the adoption or development of action plans for HPV protective behavior.