Effectiveness of Digital Education on Human Papillomavirus Knowledge, Vaccination Intent and Completion Rates in Adolescents and Young Adults: A Meta-Analysis.

AIMS

To examine the effects of digital educational intervention on HPV knowledge, vaccination intent and completion rates among adolescents and young adults.

DESIGN

A systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

The study followed PRISMA guidelines. Studies included randomised controlled trials assessing digital HPV educational interventions on individuals aged 9-26 years. Odds ratios (ORs), confidence intervals (CIs) and standardised mean differences (SMDs) were calculated and analysed with fixed- and random-effects models, depending on the degree of heterogeneity.

DATA SOURCES

Seven databases (Medline, PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, EMBASE and ASC) were searched from inception through April 9, 2024.

RESULTS

Twelve studies enrolled 4925 participants were included. Six studies demonstrated that the intervention group significantly had higher HPV knowledge compared to the control group. Five studies reported a significant improvement on vaccination intent and vaccine completion rate. Subgroup analysis of the completion rates indicated that male participants demonstrated significantly greater vaccine competed rates. A tailored educational intervention was likely to effectively enhance HPV vaccine completion rates.

CONCLUSION

Our findings confirmed that digital education was beneficial in enhancing adolescents and young adults' HPV knowledge, vaccination intention and vaccine completion rates. The tailored education might be considered prioritised in the design of interventions, while also considering the impact of gender on digital education.

IMPACTS

Digital interventions for HPV vaccinations require at least 7 months of follow-up, highlighting the vital role of tailored education for high-risk groups in designing effective interventions. The efficacy of digital interventions for HPV vaccination may differ across genders.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

There was no direct patient or public contribution, as this is a review of previous research.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

CRD-42023406919.