A Computational Framework Analysis of Public Attitudes Toward Male Human Papillomavirus Infection and Its Vaccination in China: Based on Weibo Data.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The global promotion of HPV vaccines has underscored the importance of vaccination for both males and females in reducing disease transmission and associated complications. Despite robust evidence supporting male HPV vaccination, China has yet to approve it. Public discussions on male HPV vaccination, influenced by policy delays, gender norms, and commercialization, reveal diverse attitudes and significant challenges in achieving equitable health outcomes. This study investigates public perceptions and attitudes toward male HPV vaccination in China by analyzing cognitive frames and the social, cultural, and economic factors shaping these discussions.

METHODS

This study employs a cross-sectional design to analyze 4997 Sina Weibo posts using the Analysis of Topic Model Networks (ANTMN), identifying five frames: Disease Risk and Prevention, Virus Transmission, Gender Roles and Perceptions, Vaccine Promotion and Acceptance, and Market Dynamics and Consumption.

RESULTS

The findings reveal a significant gap between policy implementation and public awareness of male HPV vaccination in China. Despite growing recognition of its benefits, entrenched gender norms and biases hinder equitable health outcomes. Social media, as a pivotal platform for health communication, plays a dual role in facilitating public discourse while also amplifying misinformation. Policy delays and concerns over vaccine commercialization heighten public hesitancy, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies and targeted education.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the necessity for systemic efforts to address gender biases, enhance public education on male HPV vaccination, and rebuild trust in vaccination programs. A multifaceted approach is required to bridge these gaps, integrating policy reforms, inclusive health communication strategies, and equitable vaccine access. These measures aim to promote awareness and increase vaccination uptake among males in China, ultimately contributing to more comprehensive and equitable public health outcomes.