Evaluating a Technology-Mediated HPV Vaccination Awareness Intervention: A controlled, Quasi-Experimental Mixed Methods Study

Abstract Background College-aged women and men are at increased risk of acquiring human papillomavirus (HPV) and are considered an important catch-up population for HPV vaccination. Technology provides an attractive platform for HPV vaccination interventions. Limited research has explored technology-mediated HPV vaccination awareness interventions aimed at college students. The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate a novel, technology-mediated, social media-based intervention to promote HPV vaccination among college students.Methods A controlled, quasi-experimental, mixed methods study examined the feasibility of a technology-based intervention among two undergraduate classes (n = 58) at a public university in the southeastern United States of America. Classes were randomized by coin flip to receive one of two cancer prevention programs (i.e., HPV vaccination [intervention] or healthy weight [control]). Both programs contained eight technology-mediated health promotion sessions, including weekly emails and private Facebook group posts. Participants completed a pre- and post-test web-based survey and submitted weekly qualitative reflections. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics for quantitative data and thematic review for qualitative data.Results Knowledge of HPV and HPV vaccination improved among participants in the HPV vaccination intervention relative to those in the control condition. Participants (97%) interacted on Facebook by “liking” a post or comment or posting a comment. Participants reported that Facebook was easy to use and encouraged interaction, which contributed to the success of the intervention.Conclusion Participants demonstrated robust engagement and high treatment satisfaction. Objective measures and qualitative open-ended assessment of the intervention showed high levels of engagement with the electronic newsletters and Facebook group. This pilot study suggests that social media is an effective platform to reach college students with health promotion interventions and increase HPV vaccination awareness in this important catch-up population.