Human PapillomaVirus vaccination in gay and bi men: Predictors, dynamic norms, and connectedness to the LGBT+ community

This study tested social cognitive predictors of vaccination and a dynamic norms intervention for increasing HPV vaccination intentions in gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM). The study employed an experiment embedded in a cross-sectional survey. Participants (N = 217; gbMSM aged 18–45 in Ireland) provided cross-sectional data on sociodemographic constructs and constructs from the Theory of Planned Behaviour and the Health Belief Model. Unvaccinated participants (n = 94) were randomised to one of three experimental conditions (no norms, static norms, dynamic norms) and presented with information on HPV vaccine uptake in gbMSM in Ireland before reporting vaccination intentions. In an adjusted logistic regression, significant predictors of vaccination included being in a relationship (OR = 8.69 1.09, 38.91), perceived susceptibility (OR = 1.11 1.04, 1.19), healthcare provider recommendation (OR = 107.24 26.87, 427.99), and perceived barriers (OR = 0.83 .7, 0.98). Adjusted linear regression models showed no significant differences in HPV vaccination intentions between no norms and static norms (B = −1.24 −4.6, 2.12), dynamic norms and static norms (B = −0.62 −3.86, 2.63), and dynamic norms and no norms (B = 0.62 −2.74, 3.98). Connectedness to the LGBT+ community did not moderate these differences. The need for greater awareness of susceptibility, the impact of barriers, and the strong influence of a recommendation from a healthcare provider in predicting HPV vaccination among gbMSM are critical considerations for policymakers. Dynamic norm messaging may be less effective for vaccination than other behaviours more easily influenced by social norms. Efforts to implement dynamic norm-based interventions in gbMSM should consider the limited evidence of efficacy.