Work

Conflicting health information increases fear of disease progression in HPV-infected individuals: disease uncertainty as mediator and tolerance of uncertainty as buffer

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is highly prevalent, and infected individuals frequently encounter HPV-specific conflicting health information about their condition. Although this phenomenon is well documented, the mechanisms by which such information influences fear of progression (FoP) and potential interventions remain unexplored. Methods: = 501) examined disease uncertainty as a mediator and tolerance of uncertainty as a moderator among HPV-positive female patients. Results: The HPV-Specific Conflicting Health Information Scale demonstrated a two-dimensional structure representing objective experiences and subjective perceptions of HPV-specific conflicting health information. Phase 2 revealed that HPV-specific conflicting health information indirectly influenced Fear of Progression via disease uncertainty, with this relationship moderated by individuals' tolerance of uncertainty. Conclusion: This study established the first validated measure of HPV-specific conflicting health information. The findings indicate that enhancing tolerance of uncertainty may serve as an effective complement to reducing conflicting information exposure in addressing HPV-related psychological distress.

Source: Frontiers in Public Health

DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1532592

Authors: Li Huai, Sihua Liao, Xiaokang Lyu, Tingting Yang, Chunye Fu

Institutions: Wenzhou Medical University, Nankai University

Language: English

Topic: Cervical Cancer and HPV Research

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801