Low knowledge of the three-dose HPV vaccine series among mothers of rural hispanic adolescents

Background. Few previous investigations on correlates of HPV vaccine uptake have included Hispanics, a group known to have a disproportionately high risk of cervical cancer. Methods. Rural Hispanic mothers of daughters aged 9-17 (n578) were recruited at local community events to participate in a standardized Spanish-language survey that examined factors related to vaccine uptake. Results. Approximately 35% of the mothers reported that their daughter had received at least one dose of the vaccine. Mothers who had heard of the HPV vaccine were more likely to have a vaccinated daughter (p,.01). Mothers who thought their daughter's father would approve were more likely to have a vaccinated daughter (p5.004). Contrary to expectation, parents who believed that only one injection is necessary were more likely to have a vaccinated daughter (p5.009). Conclusions. HPV vaccine education programs that target both parents are needed to ensure that Hispanic parents receive the complete HPV vaccine regimen.