Vaccine
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/0264410X
Volume 30, Issue 36 pp. 5299-5448 (3 August 2012)

Human papillomavirus vaccine knowledge and hypothetical acceptance among women in Appalachia Ohio
Original Research Article
Pages 5349-5357
Mack T. Ruffin IV, Erinn M. Hade, Melissa R. Gorsline, Cecilia R. DeGraffinreid, Mira L. Katz, Sarah C. Kobrin, Electra D. Paske

Abstract
Objective
To assess hypothetical acceptance of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine for themselves and a daughter age 9–12 years among Appalachia Ohio women.

Methods
Women with an abnormal Pap smear and randomly selected women with a normal Pap smear from 17 clinics completed an interview in 2006–2008.

Results
From 1131 original study participants, 807 (71%) completed a survey about the HPV vaccine for their daughters and themselves. Nearly half, 380 (47%), of the participants had heard of a vaccine to prevent cancer, and 362 (95%) of respondents had heard of HPV. The participants were then told that the FDA had approved a vaccine to prevent HPV. Only 379 (38%) participants identified girls ages 9–12 years as a group who should get the vaccine. After being given the official HPV vaccine recommendation statement, 252 (31%) wanted the vaccine; 198 (25%) were “not sure”; and 353 (44%) did not want the vaccine for themselves. With respect to giving the HPV vaccine to a daughter ages 9–12 years, participants responded “yes” 445 (55%); “not sure” 163 (20%); or “no” 185 (23%). Numerous reasons were provided supporting and opposing vaccine acceptance for themselves and for a daughter. Their physician’s recommendation for the HPV vaccine increased vaccine acceptance to 86% for themselves and 90% for a daughter.

Conclusion
Knowledge, acceptance, and barriers about the HPV vaccine vary among women living in Appalachia Ohio. Physician recommendation is a key facilitator for vaccine diffusion in this region.