Abstract
Introduction:In the United Kingdom, where a school-based human papillomavirus (HPV)vaccination programme vaccinates 12-13 year old students, parents/guardians have been the primary decision-makers regarding receipt of the vaccination. As the average age of first sexual intercourse is 15-17 years old, education at this time could provide an opportunity for unvaccinated students to self-consent to vaccination.
The aim of this section of the thesis was to develop a HPV intervention, aimed at middle adolescents (15-17 year olds83), using the 3 stages of the Behaviour Change Wheel.
Methods:
A systematic review informed target behaviours and populations. Focus groups and interviews were conducted throughout Northern Ireland with immunisation nurses(n=26), middle adolescents (n=34), and post-primary school teachers (n=12) and nurses (n=6). Data analysis was guided by the COM-B model to inform a Behavioural Diagnosis. Subsequently, appropriate intervention functions, policy categories and Behaviour Change Techniques were selected with consideration ofAPEASE criteria.
Results:
The systematic review highlighted the lack of interventions designed for middle adolescents; existing interventions were sparse, commonly not based on behavioural theory and focused on female cancers.
The study identified twelve barriers to three target behaviours which included: empowering students to make decisions about HPV; empowering professionals’ to design and deliver the intervention; and increasing positive public attitudes regarding HPV vaccination.
A behaviour change HPV intervention was developed which included school-based HPV education aligned with mandated curriculum changes, alongside vaccination opportunity. The study identified content, mode of delivery and desirable qualities/characteristics of a professional who could design/deliver the HPV education. A public media campaign was deemed important in supporting this central education.
Discussion & Conclusion:
This section of the thesis highlights political, social and cultural barriers to HPV intervention success and the need for Public Health Authority and Education Authority support. A feasibility study should be undertaken to assess the real-world practicality of this HPV intervention.
| Date of Award | May 2025 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Sponsors | The College of Radiographers |
| Supervisor | Ciara Hughes (Supervisor), Marian McLaughlin (Supervisor), Ciara Hughes (Supervisor), Marian McLaughlin (Supervisor), Ciara Hughes (Supervisor) & Marian McLaughlin (Supervisor) |
Keywords
- sexual health
- sexually transmitted infections
- sexually transmitted diseases
- school-based
- education
- public health