NCT06808776 · Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
Stories to Prevent (StoP) HPV Cancers
What this study is about
This randomly assigned controlled trial (RCT) evaluates the association of a narrative communication intervention on human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rates among 9- to 12-year-olds. The intervention is a brief video from local cancer survivors narrating their stories with an HPV-related cancer diagnosis and recommending the HPV vaccine for cancer prevention.
View original scientific description
This randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluates the association of a narrative communication intervention on human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rates among 9- to 12-year-olds. The intervention is a brief video from local cancer survivors narrating their stories with an HPV-related cancer diagnosis and recommending the HPV vaccine for cancer prevention. RCT participants will be the parents (n=200) of children ages 9-12 who have not initiated HPV vaccination. Participants will be randomized (1:1) to our intervention or control (placebo video) one week before their child's next primary care visit. Our primary outcome is HPV vaccine initiation (first dose of the HPV vaccine series) among children ages 9-12 at the time of the wellness visit. The study also explores the effect of narratives on theory-based mediators of HPV vaccination, including parents' cognitive (e.g., risk perception) and emotional reactions (e.g., hope, anticipated regret).
Interventions
OTHER
Cancer survivor narrative
The narrative video intervention has three parts: (1) Cancer experience - the cancer survivor narrates his/her experience with an HPV-related cancer, including diagnosis, treatment, and how cancer affected their personal life or family; (2) Vaccine recommendation - the cancer survivor provides brief information about the safety and effectiveness of the HPV vaccine and recommend that parents get the HPV vaccine for their child to prevent cancers; and (3) Closing message - The sentence "HPV vaccine is cancer prevention. Talk to your child's healthcare provider about getting the HPV vaccine during the next clinic visit" will appear on the screen.
OTHER
Healthy eating tips
A publicly available video about healthy eating tips for families with children.
Primary outcome measures
HPV vaccine initiation, 9-12 year olds
Time frame: One week after clinic visit
The proportion of children ages 9-12 who have initiated HPV vaccination (first dose) during their scheduled clinic visit.
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
- Parent/guardian of a 9-12 year old receiving primary care at a Penn State Health clinic
- Their child has not previously received or initiated the HPV vaccine
- Is able to read and understand spoken English or Spanish
- Has a valid email address and access to a mobile phone, table, desktop or laptop computer to engage in the intervention
Exclusion criteria
- Parent of guardian is less than 18 years of age
- Unable to read and understand spoken English or Spanish
- Does not have access to a mobile phone, table, desktop or laptop computer
Where
- Hershey, Pennsylvania
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 Feb 24, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations