Attitudes of Mothers in Da Nang, Vietnam toward a Human Papillomavirus Vaccine

Abstract

Purpose To describe attitudes and acceptability toward a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine among mothers in Da Nang, Vietnam and examine factors that may influence HPV vaccine uptake. Methods Women who were the primary caregiver of a girl 10–18 years old (“mothers”) were eligible to participate. Mothers were recruited face-to-face from Da Nang General Hospital. Participants completed a survey addressing general vaccine attitudes, attitudes toward an HPV vaccine, beliefs about sexuality, recommendations from others, and likelihood of having their daughter vaccinated against HPV. A total of 194 surveys were returned; 181 (93%) contained analyzable data. Results Eleven percent of mothers were aware of an HPV vaccine. Ninety-four percent believed that the HPV vaccine will be effective and 90% disagreed that their daughter would have sex early if she was vaccinated. Beliefs regarding premarital sex, such as “girls who have sex before marriage are not respected” and “it would be hard to find a husband” were held by 76% and 62% of mothers, respectively. Despite this, over 90% were in favor of their daughter receiving the HPV vaccine. Ninety-five percent indicated that a recommendation from their doctor would be very important in their decision-making, and 78% indicated that the media would be very important. Conclusions Initial responses to the HPV vaccine for girls in Vietnam appear favorable. Beliefs regarding negative social consequences for girls who engage in premarital sex are prevalent but unassociated with HPV vaccine acceptability. Accurate and consistent recommendations from doctors and media sources will be important for vaccination efforts.