Variables Associated With Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine Acceptance by Men

Objective: To determine correlates of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine acceptance for men. Methods: A convenience sample of men aged 18 to 45 years read a one-page information sheet about HPV and the HPV vaccine, then completed a 29-item questionnaire. chi(2) tests were used to determine whether differences in demographic, sexual, and vaccine-related variables existed between levels of wanting the HPV vaccine. Results: Positive correlates of HPV vaccine acceptance included higher education (P < .0001); hispanic ethnicity (P = .0003); wearing a seat belt most of the time (P = .02); regular tobacco use (P = <.001); not being sexually active (P = .0008); history of more than 10 female sexual partners (P = .0004); not having oral sex (P = .045); extreme worry about vaccine side effects (P < .0001); extreme concern about vaccine safety (P < .0001); the importance of getting vaccines (P < .0001); familiarity with HPV (P < .0001); and extreme importance of receiving the HPV vaccine (P < .0001). Conclusions: Men with greater general education, high-risk behaviors, and knowledge about HPV are more likely to want the HPV vaccine. Focused educational efforts should facilitate even wider acceptance of the HPV vaccine by men. (J Am Board Fam Med 2009; 22: 34-42.)