Physicians’ attitudes towards human papillomavirus vaccination programme: A systematic review

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is a newly introduced vaccine against cervical cancer in adolescent girls. Uptake of the vaccine will be dependent on parental acceptability and physician recommendation. To review physicians’ attitudes towards HPV vaccine and identify factors that may influence their intent. Also, to determine if there is any difference in the views of different medical specialties with regards to HPV vaccination. Articles were obtained through computerised searches of CINAHL, Pubmed, Web of Knowledge, Cochrane Library and Science Direct, as well as manual searches in recognised scientific journal. Articles involving physicians’ attitudes, knowledge and behaviour towards HPV vaccine published from 2007 onwards. One reviewer independently assessed relevant studies, risk of bias and data extraction. Twenty nine studies were included in the final review. Twenty four studies used survey for data collection and five studies used interview. Majority of the studies revealed positive view of physicians towards HPV vaccine with high intent to provide vaccination. Barriers identified against HPV vaccination include the following: cost and reimbursement issue; providers concern about vaccine safety; parental concern over vaccine’s safety and efficacy; age is considered too young for vaccination; issue that HPV vaccine could promote sexual activity, recommendation of HPV vaccine from organisations; communication related to sexuality; need for education and other factors like dosing, patient overload, boys should also be vaccinated and parental religious beliefs. No significant difference was noted between specialties with regards to their view about HPV vaccine. Physicians’ role is important in the promotion of HPV vaccine with their high intent and positive attitudes. In order for the HPV vaccination programme to succeed, vaccine should be made available and affordable especially to countries with high incidence of cervical cancer.