Abstract A15: Development of a multilevel human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine intervention

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: New strategies to improve human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine uptake among minority and underserved adolescents are needed. The purpose of this study is to describe the development of a multi-level HPV vaccine intervention to increase adolescent HPV vaccination rates. Methods: A community-engaged process was used over a one year period. Caregivers (n=18) and providers (n=27) from a Federally Qualified Health Center participated in: 1) focus groups to better understand knowledge and acceptability of the HPV vaccine, and to generate ideas for the intervention content and format; 2) writing sessions to develop the content and intervention components; and 3) review sessions to obtain initial feedback and make revisions prior to pilot testing the intervention. Results: Intervention components developed were based on the Protection Motivation Theory and the PACE (Present the issue, Ask questions, Check understanding, and Express concerns) communication system. The intervention components developed (English and Spanish) focus on three levels: 1) Caregivers: a) an interactive computer program tailored for the adolescent's gender, age, race/ethnicity, b) a brochure with information about additional resources, and c) a HPV vaccine comic book to assist caregivers with explaining the HPV vaccine to younger adolescents; 2) Providers: a) an automated PowerPoint presentations including current HPV vaccine initiation and completion rates, suggestions to address common barriers, and video clips demonstrating the teach-back methodology, b) current HPV vaccine scientific literature, and c) “Ask me about the HPV vaccine!” pins; and 3) Health Centers: a) posters, and b) refrigerator magnets that serve as reminders for the second and third dose of the HPV vaccine. Conclusions: Community members provided valuable input into the development of a multi-level HPV vaccine intervention. The input will make the intervention relatable and more acceptable to the priority population. Using this community-engaged approach is more complex, increases costs, and involves additional time and effort from community members and academic researchers. The value of the partnership is critical and the additional time and energy expended is important to successfully address cancer disparities among minority and underserved populations. Citation Format: Mira Lynn Katz, Paul L. Reiter, Mack T. Ruffin, IV, Electra D. Paskett. Development of a multilevel human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine intervention. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Seventh AACR Conference on The Science of Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; Nov 9-12, 2014; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2015;24(10 Suppl):Abstract nr A15.