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British Columbia Dentists' Perceptions and Practices Regarding HPV Vaccinations: A Cross-sectional Study
Journal (Canadian Dental Association)
|August 10, 2023
Summary
Dentists in British Columbia (BC) are willing to discuss and refer patients for the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine but are hesitant to administer it, citing scope of practice concerns and a lack of professional guidelines. This reluctance impacts HPV vaccination efforts in dental settings.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Dentistry
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection linked to oropharyngeal cancers.
- Vaccination is a key strategy for preventing HPV infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the willingness of dentists in British Columbia (BC) to discuss, refer, and administer the HPV vaccine.
- To identify barriers to HPV vaccination within dental practice settings.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey of practicing dentists in BC was conducted.
- The survey included 14 questions on demographics, scope of practice, and willingness to engage in HPV vaccination.
- Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analysis (p < 0.05).
Main Results:
- 84% of dentists believed discussing the HPV-cancer link was within their scope.
- Fewer dentists agreed recommending (74%) or administering (39%) the vaccine was within scope.
- Lack of professional policies and reluctance to discuss sexual history were identified barriers.
Conclusions:
- Dentists in BC are willing to discuss and refer for HPV vaccination but show reluctance to administer it.
- Perceived scope of practice limitations and lack of guidelines hinder engagement in vaccination activities in dental settings.
