Using stories to encourage HPV vaccination among children
Official title: Stories to Prevent (StoP) HPV Cancers: A communication intervention to increase HPV vaccination among diverse populations
Funded at Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr · NIH-11057746 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hershey, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $233,411 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA290500-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11057746 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are parents of children aged 9-12 who are considering HPV vaccination.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already vaccinated against HPV or those outside the age range of 9-12 years may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
Hershey, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Calo, William Alexis — Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Calo, William Alexis
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.