Protecting Our Children: A Cross-sectional Study on the Decision-making of Parents on Human Papillomavirus Vaccination for Adolescent Females in Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common viral infection of the reproductive system and is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. Due to this issue, a school-based immunization program was launched in 2022, targeting all Grade 4 female students to be vaccinated against HPV in the Zamboanga Peninsula region. Despite the efforts, the acceptance rate was still low. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of the HPV vaccine acceptance and acceptability among parents of adolescent females aged 9–12 years in Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Peninsula, Philippines, and their associated factors. Methodology: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the factors affecting the acceptance of the HPV vaccine among parents of adolescent females in the Zamboanga Peninsula, Philippines. Results: Of the 247 participants invited to the study, 204 parents had children who had not received the HPV vaccine, and only 43 had received it. According to the findings, only 36% of parents accepted the HPV vaccine for their daughters. The acceptance of the HPV vaccine varies, with a notable willingness to vaccinate daughters against HPV, driven by a desire to protect them from sexually transmitted illnesses and cancer. However, uncertainties and concerns about adverse outcomes contribute to vaccine hesitancy. Conclusion: The results emphasized the significance of effective communication, accurate information dissemination, and proactive involvement of healthcare professionals and parents in combating vaccine hesitancy and promoting vaccine acceptance. The findings also provide the groundwork for personalized interventions to increase HPV vaccine uptake and, eventually, contribute to the health and well-being of the adolescent population in Zamboanga Peninsula, Philippines.
Authors: Fatima Khutiba Wahab, Jaime Kristoffer Punzalan, May Germeyn Punzalan
Institutions: Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Zamboanga City Medical Center
Language: English
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4411111833