Context-specific strategies for enhancing HPV vaccination: key informant perspectives from selected U.S. jurisdictions in the post-COVID-19 era.

INTRODUCTION

Despite the availability of a safe and effective Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, uptake remains inconsistent across the United States (U.S.), with marked differences in vaccination coverage across states. This descriptive exploratory study examined key informant perspectives on HPV vaccination promotion across policy-engaged jurisdictions in the U.S. in the post-COVID-19 era.

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine key informants across six U.S. jurisdictions. Classification of the interviews was based on those with existing HPV vaccine school-entry requirements or those jurisdictions with recent school-entry policy considerations. Using inductive thematic analysis, we synthesized key informant perspectives and organized themes using analytical dimensions informed by the socio-ecological model.

RESULTS

Findings highlight the importance of provider education, school-entry requirements, cancer prevention messaging, trusted messengers, culturally tailored outreach, and cross-sector partnerships as important components of HPV vaccine promotion. Barriers such as vaccine misinformation and increased hesitancy following the COVID-19 pandemic were also discussed.

DISCUSSION: These insights can inform targeted, context-specific strategies to improve HPV vaccination rates and reduce cancer disparities.