How do beliefs about different human papillomavirus-related diseases vary among young gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men in the United States?
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: To determine how beliefs about various disease outcomes caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection differ among young gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (YGBMSM). From 2019 to 2021, we recruited cisgender YGBMSM ages 18–25 in the United States who were unvaccinated against HPV (n = 1,227). Survey items examined three disease outcomes (genital warts, anal cancer, and oropharyngeal cancer) for each of three different beliefs (perceived vulnerability, perceived severity, and worry) Participants reported lower perceived vulnerability to and worry about anal cancer and oropharyngeal cancer compared to genital warts (all p < 0.001). Participants also reported greater perceived severity of anal cancer and oropharyngeal cancer compared to genital warts (all p < 0.001). Some patterns of beliefs differed by participant characteristics. The beliefs of YGBMSM varied by HPV-related disease outcome. Findings can guide future HPV vaccination communication efforts for YGBMSM by informing how to better frame messages and increase relevance.
Source: Preventive Medicine Reports
Language: English
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,720
OpenAlex ID: W4399208455