Knowledge, Attitudes and Communication Preferences of Different Segments of the Greek Public With Regards to Cervical Cancer and the hpv Vaccine.

Abstract

Background: The introduction of the HPV vaccine constitutes a shift in health policy and health promotion practice. The aim of this study is to investigate knowledge, attitudes and communication preferences of the Greek public in relation to cervical cancer and the HPV vaccine. Methods: 9 focus groups (6-8 participants each) were conducted with teenage girls, parents of vaccine eligible girls and young women. Pre-focus group questionnaires consisted of: socio-demographics, knowledge (adapted from Gerend & Sheperd, 2011), BMQ - General & Specific to the HPV vaccine (adapted from Horne et al, 1999). The discussion guide was based on issues raised by (Kang & Kim, 2011; Flynn & Ogden, 2004) i.e. risk perception, illness severity. Thematic analysis was used for analysis of qualitative data. SPSS will be used for correlation and comparative analysis. Findings: Preliminary quantitative findings indicate that participants had a moderate level of knowledge and strong concerns beliefs about medicines and the HPV vaccine. Emerging themes are: lack of faith in the healthcare industry, over- medicalization of life, poor health information communication, ambivalence of health professionals, negative emotions springing from the vaccine dilemma. Discussion: Findings will contribute to our understanding of health behavior decision making and provide recommendations for health policy adjustments.