Men's Perspectives on Cancer Prevention Behaviours Associated with HPV

Abstract

Background

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with the diagnosis of anal, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers in men. Evidence indicates that correct condom use in addition to obtaining the HPV vaccine provides the greatest protection from HPV infections.

Aim

To explore young male's beliefs and behavioural intention in relation to receiving the HPV vaccine and using a condom correctly and consistently for sexual contact.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study underpinned by the Theory of Planned Behaviour was conducted with male participants (n=359, 18-28 years) who completed an online survey. Descriptive, correlational, and hierarchical regression analysis were performed on both status variables and variables of the Theory of Planned Behaviour

Findings

Sexual orientation (β= 0.177, p<0.01) and social influences [β=0.519, p<0.001] were identified as the most influential variables in relation to males' intention to receive the HPV vaccine. Whilst relationship status (β=-.215, p<0.001) and attitudes [β=0.394, p<0.001] presented as the most significant predictor of intention to use a condom. Summarily, 51% of the variance in intention to receive the HPV vaccine and 44% in intention to use a condom were explained by the TPB model.

Conclusion

Results from this study will impact on future sexual health research, education programmes, and interventions for both HPV preventative behaviours in the elimination of HPV related cancers in males.

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