Engaging new partners in human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine promotion: Considerations for training private practice dental professionals in HPV vaccine promotion

Objectives

With rates of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination remaining low and rates of oropharyngeal cancer rising, engaging new partners to promote vaccination is necessary. We aimed to identify dental hygienists' and dentists' knowledge about HPV, the HPV vaccine, and preferences for continuing education.

Methods

This mixed-methods study recruited dental hygienists and dentists working in private practice in Iowa to participate in a mailed cross-sectional survey (dental hygienists) and qualitative telephone interviews (dental hygienists and dentists). Survey and interview topics included existing knowledge about HPV vaccination, HPV vaccination promotion efforts, barriers to HPV vaccine promotion, and preferences for continuing education (CE).

Results

We received 470 surveys from dental hygienists (response rate = 22.6%) and interviewed 19 dental hygienists and 20 dentists. Vaccine efficacy and safety, along with communication strategies, were key topics of interest for CE. Dental hygienists' most commonly identified barriers were lack of knowledge (67%) and low comfort levels (42%).

Conclusions

Knowledge was identified as a key barrier to providing a strong recommendation for HPV vaccination and convenience was the most important factor to consider for any future CE. Our team is in the process of designing a CE course based on this information to help dental professionals effectively engage in HPV vaccine promotion in their practices.