Effects of passive information dissemination on human papillomavirus vaccination attitudes and knowledge among...

In Japan, human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rates remain low, partially owing to safety concerns from media reports. Pharmacies, as accessible health care facilities, often serve as sources of health information. However, the impact of passive information provision in pharmacies on public awareness and behavioral intentions has not been completely evaluated.

This study examined whether passive dissemination of HPV vaccine-related information in community pharmacies-through posters and leaflets-could improve visitors' knowledge and motivation to recommend HPV vaccinations.

A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted in 20 pharmacies, of which 10 assigned were to the intervention group and 10 to the control group. Posters and leaflets on HPV vaccinations were displayed in the intervention group only, without the pharmacist's explanation. Adult visitors (n = 182) aged 20-75 years completed baseline and follow-up questionnaires using the vaccinaTion & Hpv Knowledge scale (THinK) and 7C Vaccination Readiness Scale. The primary endpoint was the change in attitudes toward HPV vaccination (aHPV)-a composite indicator reflecting willingness to receive the vaccine, recommend it to others, and seek related information-at 12 weeks.

No significant difference in aHPV score changes was observed between the groups at 12 weeks (mean difference = 0.14; P = 0.18). However, knowledge of HPV infection was significantly improved in the intervention group at 8 and 12 weeks (P < 0.05). No significant changes were observed in any of the subscales of the 7C Vaccination Readiness Scale.

Passive information provision in pharmacies improved HPV-related knowledge but did not enhance motivation to recommend vaccination. To enhance promotion, other active modalities-such as dialogue-based communication by professionals-may be more effective.