Review of Chinese young adults' human papillomavirus knowledge, attitudes, and vaccine acceptability

Objective: The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is effective in reducing HPV-related disease. The 2-, 4-, and 9-valent HPV vaccines have been approved by the Chinese FDA since 2016; however, factors associated with HPV vaccine acceptability and use in Chinese young adults remain unclear. Design and Sample: We conducted a systematic review to analyze factors affecting HPV vaccine acceptability and use in Chinese young adults. A comprehensive search of databases (e.g., PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO) was conducted, and articles between 2011 and 2020 were included. Results: Seventeen studies were included in the final review, and eleven were conducted in mainland China and six in Hong Kong. All studies reported low level of HPV-related knowledge. Better knowledge, more concerns about HPV-associated diseases, and being female were found associated with higher vaccine acceptability. The vaccine cost and safety were the major concerns for vaccination. Conclusions: Findings suggested a low level of HPV-related knowledge and suboptimal vaccination rate in Chinese young adults. Theory-based interventions addressing knowledge and other influencing factors and involving both males and females are urgently needed to increase vaccine acceptability and use in Chinese young adults.