“A great step in treating cervical cancer”: Patient and provider perceptions about cervical cancer therapeutic vaccines

This study explored patients and providers’ perspectives on therapeutic vaccines for cervical cancer and assessed barriers and facilitators. Qualitative semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with patients who had cervical dysplasia, or a past or current cervical cancer diagnosis and providers who provided care to patients with cervical abnormalities or cervical cancer. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis in NVivo. A total of 28 in-depth interviews were conducted with patients (N = 15) and providers (N = 13). Participants in both groups expressed enthusiasm for the prospect of a therapeutic vaccine for cervical cancer and were encouraged by less invasive treatment opportunities. Perceived patient barriers included concerns about side effects, eligibility criteria, costs, transportation, and logistical obstacles. Providers echoed these concerns, highlighted additional structural barriers such as racism and limited availability of culturally sensitive educational aids, and underscored the need for provider training on this topic. Our results reinforce the need for future multi-level interventions discussing vaccine efficacy, durability, and safety, as well as addressing factors such as awareness, knowledge, and beliefs. Our findings can contribute to the development of provider and patient-centered tools that promote therapeutic vaccine acceptance. •Findings provide patient and providers’ perspectives about novel cervical cancer therapeutic vaccines.•Participants expressed interest in learning more about therapeutic vaccines.•Participants shared potential barriers and facilitators to vaccine uptake.•Future educational and training interventions should address multi-level barriers to vaccine uptake.