Worth A Shot: Motivations for the HPV Vaccine in Women up to Age 45

Background : In October 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the administration of the Gardasil 9 vaccination for men and women up to 45 years of age, expanding the previously approved age range of 12- 26. The Gardasil 9 vaccine protects against 9 strains of HPV , which can lead to cancer and other diseases. The CDC estimates that 14 million people are infected with HPV each year. (1) Further, 33,700 men and women are diagnosed with HPV related cancers each year, 31,200 of which could have been prevented by vaccination (2). Most educational materials and public health programs surrounding the HPV vaccine are targeted towards adolescents. Therefore, many women who are in the 27-45 year age range may not be aware of their ability to get the vaccination, thus leaving them at risk for contracting HPV and developing HPV related cancers. Methods: A cross-sectional study design will be used to assess knowledge and motivations of a convenience sample of women aged 27-45 surrounding HPV and the HPV vaccine. A survey will be given to women aged 27-45 at a gynecology practice located in Washington, D.C. The results of this study will then be analyzed to assess factors associated with getting or refusing the vaccine, as well as stated intent to receive the vaccine. Significance: The relationship between knowledge level and motivations towards getting the HPV vaccine will be examined in this study. This will help to identify future public health initiatives to reach the newly approved age range of adults aged 27-45