To the Editor—Chen et al’s article1 in the Hong Kong Medical Journal, “Enhancing human papillomavirus vaccine acceptance in Hong Kong: a call for action and public education,” underscores the pressing need to enhance human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine acceptance. We propose a multifaceted strategy to bolster parental support for HPV vaccination among schoolchildren in Hong Kong. First, we suggest the creation of accessible, scientifically backed educational material that clearly outlines the benefits and safety profile of HPV vaccines, addressing common misconceptions and knowledge gaps.2 These materials should be easily understood by parents with varying levels of health literacy. Second, employing Fischhoff’s risk perception framework can provide a structured approach to communicate the risks associated with HPV and the protective benefits of vaccination, both vital in reducing vaccine hesitancy.3 4 This framework can help parents make more informed decisions regarding their children’s health. Third, advocating for policy reforms that underscore the importance of HPV vaccines for both genders is essential. These reforms should emphasise the broader implications of HPV-related cancers and the role of vaccination in cancer prevention.5 This approach can help eliminate gender biases and ensure that all children receive the protection they need. Strengthening the communication skills of healthcare providers is another critical area. Training programmes can equip providers with the tools to effectively discuss the necessity and safety of HPV vaccines, thereby alleviating parental concerns and fostering trust.6 Lastly, fostering cross-sectoral collaborations to integrate HPV vaccine education into school health programmes can significantly enhance community health literacy and awareness.7 By leveraging schools as platforms for health education, we can reach a wider audience and instil the importance of HPV vaccination from a young age. These strategic initiatives, underpinned by scientific evidence and community engagement, are essential steps towards significantly increasing HPV vaccine acceptance and compliance in Hong Kong.

Concept or design: J Ke.
Critical revision of the manuscript for important intellectual content: D Zhu.

Both authors had full access to the data, contributed to the study, approved the final version for publication, and take responsibility for its accuracy and integrity.

Both authors have disclosed no conflicts of interest.

This letter received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

1. Chen Z, Chan JY, Chan PK. Enhancing human papillomavirus vaccine acceptance in Hong Kong: a call for action and public education. Hong Kong Med J 2024;30:352-4. Crossref

2. Chu JK, Sing CW, Li Y, Wong PH, So EY, Wong IC. Factors affecting human papillomavirus vaccine acceptance among parents of Primary 4 to 6 boys and girls in Hong Kong. Hong Kong Med J 2024;30:386-99. Crossref

3. Thomas RK. Contemporary approaches to health communication. In: Health Communication. New York [NY]: Springer; 2006: 133-47.

4. Fischhoff B, Bostrom A, Quadrel MJ. Risk perception and communication. Annu Rev Public Health 1993;14:183-203. Crossref

5. Drolet M, Bénard É, Pérez N, Brisson M; HPV Vaccination Impact Study Group. Population-level impact and herd effects following the introduction of human papillomavirus vaccination programmes: updated systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet 2019;394:497-509. Crossref

6. Gilkey MB, Calo WA, Moss JL, Shah PD, Marciniak MW, Brewer NT. Provider communication and HPV vaccination: the impact of recommendation quality. Vaccine 2016;34:1187-92. Crossref

7. Rolland Y, de Souto Barreto P, Abellan Van Kan G, et al. Vitamin D supplementation in older adults: searching for specific guidelines in nursing homes. J Nutr Health Aging 2013;17:402-12. Crossref