The role of the dentist in promoting HPV vaccination in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: Oral health professionals may play a key role in promoting HPV vaccination among adults through counseling and health education. Understanding their impact and the effectiveness of educational interventions is crucial for public health strategies. OBJECTIVES: To assess the influence of oral health professionals on adherence to HPV vaccination in adults and to identify the effectiveness of educational strategies aimed at improving their counseling practices. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: This review included cross-sectional and interventional studies evaluating adult-focused HPV vaccination counseling provided by oral health professionals. INFORMATION SOURCES: Searches were conducted in PubMed, EBSCO, the Cochrane Library, Science Direct, Wiley, and TRIP Database from inception to April 21, 2025. METHODS OF SYNTHESIS: Data were analyzed using a random-effects meta-analysis model in RStudio (version 4.2.2) to estimate pooled proportions with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS: A total of 10 studies were included, involving 9,575 participants, of which 3 studies implemented educational interventions. Prior to educational interventions, many dentists demonstrated limited knowledge about HPV and its link to oropharyngeal cancer, and only a few routinely discussed HPV vaccination with patients. Post-intervention, there was a notable improvement in professionals' knowledge, confidence, and frequency of patient counseling. DISCUSSION: Educational interventions were effective in enhancing dentist's preparedness to address HPV vaccination. However, barriers such as lack of privacy, discomfort discussing the topic, and limited prior training were also reported. LIMITATIONS: Heterogeneity in study design, limited geographic diversity, and variability in intervention approaches were noted. CONCLUSIONS: Oral health professionals can significantly contribute to adult HPV vaccination efforts through targeted counseling, especially when supported by ongoing education and institutional strategies that address systemic barriers. REGISTRATION: PROSPERO ID: CRD42024617902.