Attitudes toward HPV vaccination among parents of adolescent girls in Mysore, India

This study investigates attitudes toward human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among parents of adolescent girls in Mysore, India. Seven focus group discussions were held among parents of adolescent girls stratified by sex, religion and region to explore attitudes about cervical cancer and HPV vaccination. The study found that while parents have limited knowledge about HPV or cervical cancer, most are still highly accepting an HPV vaccine. In addition, high acceptability levels appear to reflect positive attitudes toward the government universal immunization program in general, rather than to the HPV vaccine in particular. The results highlight the need for additional education and health promotion regarding HPV and cervical cancer prevention in India.