Using stories to encourage HPV vaccination among children

Stories to Prevent (StoP) HPV Cancers: A communication intervention to increase HPV vaccination among diverse populations

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr · NIH-11057746

This study is looking to help parents of kids aged 9-12 feel more comfortable getting the HPV vaccine by sharing inspiring stories from local cancer survivors, so they can see how important vaccination is for their children's health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hershey, United States)
Project IDNIH-11057746 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to improve HPV vaccination rates among children aged 9-12 by using narrative communication strategies. Parents will receive a brief video featuring local cancer survivors sharing their experiences with HPV-related cancers and encouraging vaccination. The study will evaluate how these personal stories impact parents' decision-making regarding the HPV vaccine. By utilizing digital and mobile technologies, the research seeks to enhance pre-visit education and support for parents during clinic visits.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are parents of children aged 9-12 who are considering HPV vaccination.

Not a fit: Patients who are already vaccinated against HPV or those outside the age range of 9-12 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase HPV vaccination rates, thereby reducing the incidence of HPV-related cancers in the population.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that narrative communication can effectively influence health-related decision-making, suggesting a promising approach for this intervention.

Where this research is happening

Hershey, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.