Dynamics of HPV vaccination initiation in Flanders (Belgium) 2007-2009: a Cox regression model
2011

HPV Vaccination Patterns in Flanders

Sample size: 117151 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Lefevere Eva, Hens Niel, De Smet Frank, Van Damme Pierre

Primary Institution: Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy, Antwerp University

Hypothesis

What factors influence the initiation of HPV vaccination among girls in Flanders between 2007 and 2009?

Conclusion

HPV vaccination uptake is influenced by individual and organizational factors, particularly when the initiative lies with the girls and their families.

Supporting Evidence

  • 53% of the sample initiated HPV vaccination during the study period.
  • Older girls had a higher likelihood of starting vaccination.
  • Girls with preferential treatment had lower vaccination initiation rates.
  • Vaccination uptake varied significantly by socio-economic status.

Takeaway

The study found that older girls and those from better-off families were more likely to start getting the HPV vaccine.

Methodology

A Cox regression model was used to analyze the hazard rates of HPV vaccination initiation based on various predictors.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to the selection of participants from a single sickness fund may not represent the entire population.

Limitations

The study focused only on girls who were members of one sickness fund and did not account for those outside this system.

Participant Demographics

Girls aged 12 to 18 from Flanders, with a focus on socio-economic background and neighborhood income.

Statistical Information

Confidence Interval

95% CI

Statistical Significance

p<0.0001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2458-11-470

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