Perceptions and Interests of Dental Hygienists in Addressing Food Insecurity and HPV in Clinical Settings

Few studies have explored dental hygienists' views on health behaviors like food insecurity or recommending preventive care such as the HPV vaccine. This study examined current practices, barriers, and readiness to implement screenings for food insecurity (FI), HPV risk, and vaccine recommendation.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted (August 2024) among Oklahoma dental hygienists. Using concepts from the Transtheoretical Model and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), an embedded mixed-methods survey evaluated respondent readiness to conduct FI screenings and HPV risk assessment/vaccine recommendation. Analyses included descriptive statistics and χ² tests to determine associations between intent and constructs of TPB. Additionally, content analysis of open-ended questions identified barriers and facilitators to adopting these practices.

Among respondents (n = 92), the majority were not yet considering (precontemplation) screening for FI (67%), risk assessment for HPV (58%), or providing the HPV vaccine recommendation (78%). Most hygienists displayed a positive attitude toward these practices, yet lacked intent due to low perceived behavioral control and subjective norms (p < 0.001). Qualitative content analysis revealed barriers, including a lack of knowledge (41%) and awareness (18%), low confidence (10%), and considering such practices outside the scope of dental care (15%). Despite this, hygienists reported education (13%) and access to resources (10%) as facilitators in initiating HPV and FI related conversations.

Despite the low readiness, hygienists reported a willingness to engage in these critical public health issues with appropriate training and support. A stage-based training program in Oklahoma may enhance dental hygienists' knowledge and confidence, thereby improving preventive care and health outcomes.