Factors Associated with the HPV Vaccination among Korean Americans and Koreans: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Koreans and Korean Americans (KAs) have limited HPV knowledge and awareness. KAs share a culture with Koreans, and this culture has affected their behavior around HPV. This systematic review aimed to synthesize the factors associated with HPV vaccination among Koreans and KAs. The literature search was done with four databases. The vaccination rate, awareness and knowledge of HPV, and factors associated with vaccination intention were identified. Eighteen articles were selected. Koreans and KAs had low levels of HPV knowledge and awareness. Perceived benefits and seriousness were associated with vaccination intention. Cervical cancer history, beliefs that their daughters need a pap smear test, sexual intercourse experiences, occupation, low education, and income were associated with vaccination intention. This systematic review discovered that HPV vaccination behavior is associated with HPV vaccine awareness, perceived benefits of the vaccine, and the perceived seriousness of HPV infection among Koreans and KAs. Based on the results, we suggest healthcare providers provide a HPV vaccine recommendation by emphasizing the benefits of the vaccination to Koreans and KAs. This study can be the basis for developing interventions to increase HPV vaccination by guiding the target population and variables, as well as the intervention content.