Peer-reviewed article

Co-creating HPV Vaccination Messages for Rural Washington: Application of a Boot Camp Translation Approach.

Jamie H Thompson, Jennifer S Rivelli, Priyanka Gautom, Amanda F Petrik, Matthew Najarian et al. · 24 Dec 2025

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a leading cause of preventable cancers, yet vaccination rates among children remain low in the United States, especially in rural and Hispanic/Latino communities. This study addresses the significant gap in HPV vaccination coverage in rural Washington State, where rates fall below national targets due to barriers like limited health care access, low awareness, and socioeconomic challenges. Hispanic/Latino communities in these areas face additional risks, including higher cervical cancer incidence and unique barriers to vaccination. To address these disparities, we applied an adapted Boot Camp Translation (BCT) approach within the PREVENT study, co-creating culturally tailored HPV vaccination messages and materials with English- and Spanish-speaking parents and caregivers. Through a collaborative process involving community members, health care providers, and researchers, we co-developed messaging and materials about HPV vaccination that emphasize its safety, effectiveness, and role in cancer prevention. The engagement approach led to positive shifts in vaccination intentions, particularly among Spanish-speaking participants, and identified key message themes and preferred dissemination channels such as patient mailers, text messaging outreach, live call outreach, educational website resources, and clinic materials. These findings underscore the value of community-engaged, culturally responsive interventions to address vaccine barriers and improve uptake in underserved populations. The adapted BCT model provides a scalable framework for developing effective and relevant health communication strategies, contributing to improved health equity and reduced cancer disparities.