'Addressing HPV Vaccine Hesitancy: Unveiling Concerns and Building Trust' Perspectives of Adolescent Girls and Parents in Kisumu County, Kenya.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
8-5-2024
Publication Title
Ecancermedicalscience
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes cervical cancer, and HPV vaccination is highly effective in preventing vaccine-targeted HPV infection. However, low HPV vaccination coverage in Kisumu County, Kenya, at about 10% for the first dose, highlights the critical issue of vaccine hesitancy, particularly in low and middle-income countries.
METHODS: This study explores the concerns, myths and barriers to HPV vaccine uptake among adolescent girls (aged 10-14) enrolled at human immune-deficiency virus comprehensive care clinics and their parents in Kisumu County. Focused group discussions were conducted with 48 participants.
RESULTS: Content analysis revealed limited knowledge about the HPV vaccine and widespread misconceptions regarding its safety and efficacy. Financial constraints, injection fears and negative clinic experiences emerged as additional barriers.
CONCLUSION: The findings emphasise the role of effective communication strategies, including engaging parents through written materials and involving them in decision-making, to dispel myths, provide accurate information and encourage HPV vaccination. Collaborative efforts with community stakeholders are crucial to improve vaccine coverage and ultimately reduce the cervical cancer burden.
Volume
18
First Page
1735
Recommended Citation
Ochomo EO, Tonui P, Muthoka K, Amboka S, Itsura P, Orang'o EO, et al. [Rosen B]. 'Addressing HPV vaccine hesitancy: unveiling concerns and building trust' perspectives of adolescent girls and parents in Kisumu County, Kenya. Ecancermedicalscience. 2024 Aug 5;18:1735. doi: 10.3332/ecancer.2024.1735. PMID: 39421184.
DOI
10.3332/ecancer.2024.1735
ISSN
1754-6605
PubMed ID
39421184
