NCT07637630 · Northwestern University
Trial in HPV Prevention for the U.S. Vietnamese Community
(HERO)
What this study is about
The purpose of the HERO study is to leverage the Multiphase Optimization Strategy (MOST) framework to conduct a pilot trial testing four different intervention components (expert video, self-persuasion, narrative storytelling, and motivational interviewing) targeting HPV vaccination among U.S. Vietnamese.
View original scientific description
The purpose of the HERO study is to leverage the Multiphase Optimization Strategy (MOST) framework to conduct a pilot trial testing four different intervention components (expert video, self-persuasion, narrative storytelling, and motivational interviewing) targeting HPV vaccination among U.S. Vietnamese. PRIMARY AIM To assess the feasibility and acceptability of each of the four digital HERO intervention components in a pilot optimization trial using the MOST framework. Using a highly efficient design, the study team will randomize 96 Vietnamese parents of unvaccinated adolescents to receive 0 to 4 HERO components. The study team will establish the feasibility (reach, retention, adherence) and acceptability (usability, satisfaction, usefulness, cultural relevance) of each component (expert video, self-persuasion, narrative storytelling, and motivational interviewing). SECONDARY AIM To investigate effects of each component on HPV vaccination outcomes and psychosocial mediators. The study team will examine the effects on HPV vaccination (initiation and intention) and psychosocial mediators.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Expert Video
Participants will watch a video featuring Vietnamese healthcare providers. In the video, the providers will endorse vaccine safety and efficacy, dispel common misconceptions or concerns, and use verbal persuasion techniques to recommend HPV vaccination.
BEHAVIORAL
Self-persuasion
Participants will complete an interactive web-based task where they audio record reasons, summarized in their own words, for getting their adolescent the HPV vaccine.
BEHAVIORAL
Narrative Storytelling
Participants will watch a video featuring U.S. Vietnamese parents. In the video, featured parents will describe stories of their experiences learning about the HPV vaccine as well as motivations to initiate and complete the vaccine series on-time for their adolescents.
BEHAVIORAL
Motivational Interviewing
Participants will receive 2 calls (phone or Zoom) from a trained U.S. Vietnamese health educator. The health educator will use motivation interviewing (e.g., open-ended questions, acknowledging feelings, affirmations, reflective listening) to increase opportunities for and commitment to HPV vaccination while decreasing barriers (e.g., safety or access concerns).
BEHAVIORAL
Constant Component
Each participant will receive the constant component through the study website, which includes a vaccine information statement from the CDC with details on HPV vaccine benefits, potential side effects, and recommended vaccination schedule, as well as online information on access and locations for HPV vaccine (e.g., list of Vaccines for Children providers where Medicaid, uninsured, or underinsured adolescents can be vaccinated for free).
Primary outcome measures
Feasibility: Reach
Time frame: Baseline
Number of enrolled participants divided by number of eligible individuals
Feasibility: Retention
Time frame: 1, 3, and 6 months post-randomization
Number of of participants who drop out divided by number of randomized participants
Feasibility: Adherence
Time frame: 1-month post randomization
Self-persuasion task: number of web launches and length of time spent completing task; Expert video and narrative storytelling: number of views and length of engagement time; Motivational interviewing: number of completed motivational interviewing calls and length of each call
Acceptability
Time frame: 1-month post randomization
Survey questions and semi-structured interviews exploring cultural relevance; reason for use/lack of use; aspects participants liked the most/least; ideas for improvement
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Self-identify as U.S. Vietnamese.
- Are the parent of a youth ages 9-18 who have not initiated the HPV vaccine series. Only one parent per household will be able to participate.
- Have lived in the U.S. for 12 months or more.
Exclusion criteria
- Planning to move out of the U.S. within the next 6 months.
- Not fluent in either spoken and written Vietnamese or spoken and written English.
- Inability to provide informed consent.
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
Collaborators
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 11, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations