Parental and young adults’ perspectives on STI vaccines and hesitancy: a pilot study

Vaccine hesitancy is a significant public health concern worldwide. Stigma associated with STIs is prevalent, leading to increased hesitancy toward STI vaccines. Many factors, such as region, culture, age, gender, and social status, can directly or indirectly influence public vaccine hesitancy. This study examined the perspectives of young adults’ and parents’ on STI vaccinations, as well as the factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy. This study employed a qualitative methodology to explore the attitudes of parents and young adults toward STI vaccines and vaccine hesitancy through focus groups and semi-structured interviews. We selected participants through purposive sampling to ensure a variety of socioeconomic and educational backgrounds were represented. The data obtained from the recorded interviews were transcribed with precision and analyzed thematically. Reflexive thematic analysis revealed key themes such as awareness, decision-making, stigma, accessibility, and trust in healthcare. To maintain ethical integrity, informed consent was obtained, participant anonymity was assured, and institutional ethical standards were adhered to. Qualitative analysis identified four primary themes: religious and cultural aspects, awareness, age- and sex-based factors, and health system factors. Educational and governmental efforts support awareness; however, stigma and misinformation persist as obstacles. Participants emphasized the importance of accessible information, social media campaigns, and celebrity endorsements to raise awareness. Concerns regarding the cost, accessibility, and longevity of vaccines have also arisen. This study seeks to connect scientific advancements with the public’s perception of them, promoting STI vaccines as vital preventive healthcare measures. Barriers to open discussions on STI vaccination included cultural taboos, generational discomfort, and fear of judgment. Participants exhibited a lack of awareness and frequently depended on informal information sources, resulting in misconceptions about the disease. Gender differences were observed, with women exhibiting greater self-efficacy and concern regarding reproductive outcomes, whereas men often underestimated their risks. People’s trust in healthcare systems varies, favoring private facilities over government hospitals. Effective family communication and access to reliable, age-appropriate information are essential factors that influence vaccine decision-making.