Using games to encourage vaccinations in children
Official title: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Study to Examine Feasibility and Preliminary Effectiveness of a Game-based Intervention in Promoting HPV Vaccination Among Vulnerable Youth to Prevent Cancers
Run by Michigan State University · NCT05984849 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests if using fun games can help kids aged 11-14 feel more confident about getting their HPV and COVID-19 vaccines.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 11 Years to 14 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 180 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Michigan State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Chandler, Arizona) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 27, 2025 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | August 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 20, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05984849 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are unvaccinated children aged 11-14 years who are hesitant about receiving the HPV or COVID-19 vaccines.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who have already received the HPV or COVID-19 vaccines will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This project aims to enhance vaccine confidence and increase vaccination rates for HPV and COVID-19 among underserved youth aged 11-14. It will assess the feasibility of two game-based interventions designed to promote these vaccinations. The study will involve a pilot randomized controlled trial with three groups: one receiving the HPV game intervention, another receiving the COVID-19 game intervention, and a control group receiving usual care. The effectiveness of these interventions will be evaluated by measuring changes in vaccine intent and uptake among parent-child pairs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve vaccination rates among vulnerable youth populations.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using game-based interventions to improve health behaviors, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Child sample: (1) 11-14 years old, (2) speaks and reads English, (3) has never received any doses of the HPV vaccine, (4) is not currently enrolled in another project that involves HPV-related education, and (5) agrees and provides assent to participate in research activities. * Parent sample: (1) parent or legal guardian of the participating child, (2) speak and read English, (3) own a smartphone, (4) agree to receive email and text messages, (5) is not currently enrolled in another project that involves HPV-related education, and (6) agree and provide consent to participate in research activities. Exclusion Criteria: Individuals who do not meet inclusion criteria or refuse to provide consent/assent.
Where it's running
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Community
Chandler, Arizona, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: ANGELA C CHEN, PhD — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: ANGELA CHEN, PhD
- Email: VaccineHealthGame@msu.edu
- Phone: (517) 884-4645
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.