Associations of health behaviors with human papillomavirus vaccine uptake, completion, and intentions among female undergraduate students

J Health Psychol. 2016 Sep;21(9):1949-55. doi: 10.1177/1359105315569093. Epub 2015 Feb 3.

Abstract

This study explored associations between health behaviors and human papillomavirus vaccine receipt/intentions among female undergraduates. Participants (N = 286) completed a survey assessing human papillomavirus vaccine uptake (receiving 1-3 shots vs no shots), completion (receiving 3 shots vs 1-2 shots), and intentions as well as various health behaviors. Human papillomavirus vaccine uptake and completion were associated with receipt of other preventive medical care; completion was associated with having a regular healthcare provider. Among unvaccinated students (n = 115), increased human papillomavirus vaccine intentions were associated with flu shot and human immunodeficiency virus test receipt. Findings suggest promoting human papillomavirus vaccination with other preventive medical care might improve vaccine receipt.

Keywords: cancer; health behavior; health care; human papillomavirus vaccination; sexual health.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Health Behavior*
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Health Surveys
  • Humans
  • Intention
  • Papillomavirus Infections / prevention & control*
  • Papillomavirus Infections / psychology*
  • Papillomavirus Vaccines / administration & dosage*
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care / psychology*
  • Students / psychology
  • Vaccination
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Papillomavirus Vaccines