Alternative Allied Health Care Providers: Athletic Trainers Educating Stakeholders to Improve HPV-Related Infections

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) has one of the lowest vaccination rates. Sports medicine providers are well suited to educate stakeholders about HPV-related infections, but athletic trainers (ATs) historically haven't been actively involved in the prevention of this disease. This study aimed to examine ATs' knowledge of HPV and their perceived role and responsibility in educating stakeholders about HPV.

A virtual cross-sectional survey was sent to participants through the National Athletic Trainers' Association data collection service. The survey consisted of a consent form, demographics, knowledge, and perception-based questions. An optional open-ended section was included.

Despite a lower response rate, 460 ATs participated in the study. Only 46% of all ATs scored above 70% on the knowledge-based questions. Those with previous HPV-related training displayed significantly more knowledge (average score of 77.5%) versus those without (64%). Those with training also felt that ATs are responsible for assisting with athletes' general medical conditions (P = .007). ATs previously offered (P = .0001) or having received the HPV vaccine (P < .0001) had significantly more knowledge.

ATs are well-positioned to educate stakeholders about HPV. Although knowledge levels are low, ATs perceived a responsibility to educate stakeholders directly contributing to preventing HPV from spreading.