Knowledge of HPV-Related Oropharyngeal Cancer and Use of Human Papillomavirus Vaccines by Pediatricians in Louisiana.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the level of knowledge of HPV related oropharyngeal cancer and practice patterns of HPV vaccine use by pediatricians.

STUDY DESIGN, SUBJECTS, METHODS: IRB approved 18-question survey was administered to members of the Louisiana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

RESULTS: We received 116 responses (response rate: 15.9 percent );. 104 respondents (89.66 percent ); routinely recommend/offer HPV vaccine, 6 (5.17 percent ); occasionally or only at caregiver request, and 6 (5.17 percent ); do not offer the vaccine. 17 (15.5 percent ); reported having no awareness of the link between oropharyngeal cancer and HPV, and only 50 (45.9 percent ); had knowledge that HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer incidence was increasing. Strength of recommendation for males and knowledge of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer were not associated with years in practice, practice type or patient population served.

CONCLUSIONS: Increased awareness regarding HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers among primary care providers may increase HPV immunization rates, especially in males.