Opinions of Andalusian primary health care professionals about human papillomavirus and its vaccine

Abstract

Background. The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted disease, but its vaccination coverage is among the lowest in Andalusia. The aim of this study is to determine what primary health care professionals think and find out about the prevention of HPV infection among adolescents and the administration of the vaccineMethod. Qualitative study using six focus groups with professionals from Primary Health Care in Seville, Granada and Jaen. Fourty-five professionals participated. An analysis of the semantic content was made, and answers were categorized in thematic units.Results. Professionals recognize the difficulties in reaching the adolescent population concerning prevention of sexual risk behaviors, due to lack of time and little concern amongst adolescents about the preventive measures. Although the professionals recognize the symptoms of HPV infection, some did not know about the disease in men as well as the association with other cancers other than cervical cancer. They hesitate over whether to recommend the vaccine or not, leaving the decision to vaccinate their daughters in the hands of the parents.Conclusion. It would be advisable to establish strategies that improve the information that the professionals have about HPV as well as the benefits of the vaccine, so that they can transmit the benefits clearly and assertively to the parents. This would avoid parental uncertainty, improve vaccination rates, and decrease complications of infection (cancer).