Increasing Oral Health Team's Knowledge, Attitudes, and Intention to Recommend the HPV Vaccine.

ABSTRACT

This study aims to assess the impact of an educational intervention on the knowledge, attitudes, and intentions of oral health providers regarding the recommendation of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. A qualitative evaluation was conducted in 2021 with dental professionals who participated in a training program focused on HPV vaccination. Saturation was reached at 12. Results showed increased knowledge and awareness of the link between HPV infection and oropharyngeal cancers among participants. Intention to recommend was universally endorsed. The use of role-play with youth actors was highly regarded as an effective method for improving communication skills and confidence in recommending the vaccine. These findings emphasize the importance of targeted interventions to enhance oral health professional education and the intention to recommend HPV vaccine.