Nativity Differences in Awareness and Knowledge About HPV Infection and Vaccination Among U.S. Adults: Findings from a National Population-Based Sample

Abstract

Foreign-born populations in the United States suffer multiple disparities related to human papillomavirus, including higher cervical cancer mortality and lower HPV vaccination. No nationally based studies have examined the relationship between nativity with HPV and HPV vaccination awareness and knowledge, especially examining acculturation, an immigration-specific process affecting health-related behaviors. We assessed nativity differences in HPV awareness and knowledge, and awareness of HPV vaccination using data from a population-based sample of adults in the U.S. (n = 2415). Among foreign-born respondents, we also assessed the association of acculturation with outcomes. Awareness of HPV and HPV vaccination were lower among foreign-born respondents compared to U.S.-born respondents. Knowledge of HPV was similar between populations. Acculturation was not associated with any of the assessed outcomes. Findings suggest HPV-related awareness deficits among foreign-born U.S. residents, highlighting a need for culturally-appropriate HPV prevention efforts.