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Health belief model–based peer education to improve human papillomavirus vaccine acceptance: A pilot interventional study among Turkish female midwifery students

Year: 2026

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: This pilot study evaluated a Health Belief Model (HBM)-based peer education program's effectiveness in improving knowledge, attitudes, and intentions regarding human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among female midwifery students in Turkey. A randomized, parallel-group pilot trial was conducted with 40 first-year midwifery students (intervention n = 20, control n = 20) at a foundation university in Turkey (January–March 2024). Two control participants were lost to follow-up, leaving 38 for analysis. The intervention group received a structured five-day HBM-based peer education program delivered by senior students, while controls received standard peer-led information. Outcomes included HPV knowledge and four HBM sub-dimensions, assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and at four weeks. The intervention group showed significantly greater improvements in knowledge ( p < 0.01), perceived benefits ( p = 0.01), severity (p < 0.01), and barriers ( p < 0.01) compared with controls. Vaccine intention was higher among intervention participants (90% vs. 0%, p < 0.01). Actual uptake remained low (10%), primarily due to financial barriers (55.6%). HBM-based peer education can improve HPV vaccine-related knowledge, attitudes, and intentions among midwifery students. The findings provide preliminary evidence supporting the feasibility of theory-based peer education, warranting larger trials. • Peer education based on Health Belief Model improved vaccine knowledge. • Vaccination intentions increased to 90% vs 0% in controls. • Financial barriers limited actual uptake despite positive attitudes. • Midwifery students as future advocates need targeted interventions. • Theory-driven peer education effective in non-funded vaccine settings.

Source: Preventive Medicine Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2026.103377