Human Papillomavirus Knowledge and Recommendation Practices Among Conference Attendees

Area of Science:

• Oral Health
• Public Health
• Immunology

Background:

• Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common infection linked to oral cancers.
• Pediatric dentists play a role in public health and preventive care.
• Understanding dentists' perspectives on HPV immunization is crucial for public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the knowledge, recommendation behaviors, and education of American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) attendees regarding HPV and its immunization.
• To identify current practices and knowledge gaps among pediatric dentists concerning HPV immunization.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving a survey administered to attendees of the AAPD 2019 Annual Session.
• The survey assessed demographic characteristics, educational resources, HPV recommendation behaviors, and knowledge levels.

Main Results:

• 188 surveys were completed, with an average knowledge score of 7.7/10.
• Respondents strongly agreed that dentists should recommend HPV immunization but showed less willingness to discuss patient immunization status.
• Personal knowledge was the most common information source (47.9%), while ADA statements were least utilized (8.5%).

Conclusions:

• Pediatric dentists acknowledge the importance of recommending HPV immunization.
• There is a need for improved HPV knowledge and greater adoption of formal organizational guidelines among dental professionals.
• Interventions should focus on enhancing dentists' understanding and utilization of evidence-based recommendations for HPV immunization.