A Survey of Wisconsin Pediatricians' Knowledge and Practices Regarding the Human Papillomavirus Vaccine. (April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rohrbach, Marc R.; Wieland, Aaron M.
• Is Part Of: Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery. Volume 156:Number 4(2017)
• Page Start: 636
• Page End: 641
• Publication Date: 2017-04
• Subjects: human papillomavirus -- HPV -- vaccine -- oropharyngeal cancer -- public health; Head -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Neck -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; 617.51
• DOI: 10.1177/0194599817695806
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0194-5998

Abstract

Objective: The human papillomavirus (HPV) is common and carries a significant burden of disease. This is increasingly apparent in males with the rising incidence of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer. Unfortunately, vaccination rates remain poor and are lowest in males. It is unclear if pediatricians are aware of the alarming rise of HPV-mediated head and neck cancers and the disproportionate effect on males. Study Design: This investigation used a cross-sectional descriptive survey research design. Setting: The survey was developed by investigators in the University of Wisconsin Division of Otolaryngology. Subjects and Methods: The survey was distributed to 831 members of the Wisconsin Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Results: A total response rate of 49.6% was achieved. Most supported routine vaccination in both sexes. Females are regarded as being at higher risk of an HPV-related cancer and are more often recommended vaccination. Most providers are unaware of the magnitude of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer and the greater affliction in males. Conclusions: Male vaccination is overwhelmingly supported by Wisconsin pediatricians, yet there is a preponderance toward vaccinating females, who are perceived as having greater risk for HPV-associated disease. This is likely because providers are unaware of the magnitude of HPV-driven oropharyngeal cancer and its predilection for males. A lack of provider awareness, in combination with out-of-date education material for parents, likely contributes to poor vaccination rates in males.