The Human Papilloma Virus, or HPV vaccine has been controversial amongst parents of children who are recommended to have the vaccine in order to prevent a variety of cancers and schools making it part of their admissions programme.

Surveys reveal that only 21 percent of parents think vaccinating children is a good idea depsite recommendations and support from leading medical institutions. However, a new study has revealed including an ‘opt-out’ option would make it more popular with parents. By adding in an option, 57 percent of parents were more onboard with the vaccination.

The popularity of the vaccine is thought to be low because of the lack of understanding and knowledge surrounding the vaccine. Many parents are concerned there is not enough evidence that administering the vaccine will not cause long-term health effects, while many believe it is just a way for the drug companies to make money.

However, HPV is a major concern amongst health experts citing that it infects approximately 80 million people worldwide with 14 million affected in the U.S. alone. Efforts to prevent this is backed up by the vaccine which experts say in crucial especially for young people.

One of the major preventions the vaccine provides is against cervical cancer with many studies backing this up and with HPV being spread through sexual contact, it is a huge concern that young adults are more likely to be affected.

William Calo, author of the study from Department of Health Policy and Management at the Gillings School of Global Public Health at the University of North Carolina told ABC News of the disappointment

“We were expecting a higher number of parents supporting vaccine requirements, 21 percent is a lot lower than we expected.” Calo went on to say, “One of the most surprising findings of the study is that 60 percent of people don’t believe the vaccine is effective in preventing cervical cancer.”

More information about the HPV vaccine can be found here.