Human papillomavirus vaccination among childhood cancer survivors: A scoping review

Childhood cancer survivors are at increased risk for human papillomavirus (HPV) cancers yet are less likely to be vaccinated against HPV than the general population. This scoping review identified studies describing barriers, facilitators, and strategies to improve HPV vaccination in this vulnerable population. We searched PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and Web of Science to identify full-length studies, published in English, from July 2006 to June 2024. We excluded survivorship studies unrelated to HPV vaccination and non-empirical studies (e.g. commentaries). Twenty studies were identified. Multi-level barriers reported occurred in patients- (e.g. vaccine safety-concerns), provider- (e.g. inconsistent guidelines), and system-levels (e.g. lack of vaccine availability). The primary facilitator was the health care provider's recommendation. Potential strategies for increased vaccination included clear recommendations and digital reminders. This review provides valuable insights for developing strategies to improve HPV vaccination coverage and reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers among childhood cancer survivors.