Modifiable and Non-Modifiable Factors Associated with HPV Vaccine Decision-Making among American Indian Women College Students

Cervical cancer is a preventable disease that is highly prevalent among American Indian (AI) women. Some types of the Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been identified as causing cervical cancer in women and other less common cancers such as cancer of the anus, vagina, vulva, and oral cavity. Two vaccines, Gardasil® and Cervarix®, are available for primary protection against HPV. Despite its proven efficacy, additional efforts are needed to improve HPV update among AI women. Our project was designed to assess HPV vaccine readiness among AI college students, and identify factors that influence their decision-making. Modifiable risk factors are ideal to identify in that they can be targeted for health behavior education and intervention. Further, risk factors once identified can be tailored for designing effective interventions in high-risk communities.