Using games to encourage vaccinations in children

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

Not applicable Interventional Michigan State University · NCT05984849

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

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment180 (estimated)
Ages11 Years to 14 Years
SexAll
SponsorMichigan State University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Chandler, Arizona)
Trial IDNCT05984849 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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.

Not a fit: Patients who have already received the HPV or COVID-19 vaccines will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve vaccination rates among vulnerable youth populations.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using game-based interventions to improve health behaviors, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Chandler, Arizona

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions HPVVaccine-Preventable Diseasesadolescentgame intervention
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.