Introduction
The HPV vaccine is recognised as a highly effective public health tool that protects against
cervical cancer, genital warts and other related HPV cancers. In the Canton of Vaud, the
vaccine is offered to adolescents in the 9th grade at schools. However, vaccination rates
remain below 60%. The reasons influencing the decision to vaccinate against HPV are not well
understood. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is important to have prior
discussions with stakeholders before launching any targeted immunisation promotion. A better
understanding of these factors could help develop a new promotion strategy that may increase
vaccination coverage.
Purpose
This study aims to explore the factors that influence adolescents' decisions to either receive or
decline the HPV vaccine within the school setting in the Canton of Vaud. The objective of our
research was to gather information about adolescents' experiences and decision-making
regarding HPV vaccination. In the initial phase of this study, we developed a research protocol
for approval by the CER-VD. Following the approval, we conducted a pilot study in the second
phase.
Methodology
We organised a focus group discussion that included two participants that I moderated. The
discussion format was semi-structured, utilising open-ended questions co-written with the
adolescent advisory committee of the CHUV. The focus group lasted one hour and took place
in person at the CHUV building. After transcribing and coding the discussion, we analysed the
responses, focusing on the following themes: information sources and channels, vaccination
sites, communication strategies and recommendations, understanding of HPV and
vaccination, roles of healthcare and educational institutions, parental influence, and
adolescents’ involvement in decision-making.
Results
The analysis revealed a general lack of knowledge about HPV and its vaccine among
adolescents, highlighting significant gaps in information transmission. Schools were perceived
as easy access points for information related to vaccination, yet their potential was considered
underutilised. The participants indicated they would prefer vaccinations to be carried out in
dedicated settings such as medical offices or healthcare centres. Parents were mentioned as
the primary stakeholders in the vaccination process, with adolescents often following their
guidance rather than actively engaging in the decision. Participants preferred more interactive
and age-appropriate communication methods, such as in-person discussions and informative
videos, over less engaging formats like printed brochures. The setting of vaccination also
influenced perceptions, with mixed opinions on whether schools were the most appropriate
venue for vaccination.
Conclusion
This pilot study demonstrated the feasibility of using focus groups to explore adolescents'
perceptions of HPV vaccination, although we faced recruitment challenges. The findings
emphasise the need for innovative strategies to better engage adolescents in the vaccination
decision-making process. Enhancing information transmission, primarily through school-based
initiatives and healthcare professionals, could improve vaccination uptake. Furthermore, the
study highlights the importance of involving adolescents in discussions about their health
choices more actively. To build on these insights, I recommend conducting a full study with a
larger sample size, as proposed in the protocol approved by the ethics committee.