Background:
Despite Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine being recommended to both genders, vaccine resources and financial subsidies in Hong Kong had been mainly utilized on females and little was invested in promoting vaccine uptake in men. Studies had reported a low HPV vaccination uptake rate in Hong Kong male students, who often demonstrated misconceptions about HPV and perceived low benefits in receiving HPV vaccinations. This study explored the perception and willingness-to-pay (WTP) of the HPV vaccine among male university students in Hong Kong, and further assessed if visual-based education would impact their HPV vaccine uptake intentions.

Methods:
An interventional online survey was conducted in April 2021. Perception and WTP were measured with Likert scales and bidding games respectively pre and post the visual-based knowledge dissemination section. Visual-based HPV fact sheet was prepared to highlight male HPV-related diseases such as genital warts, papilloma, and oropharyngeal cancer. Symptoms of the captioned diseases were illustrated with clinical pictures and the section ended by stating HPV vaccine was regarded as an effective measure to prevent the HPV-related diseases mentioned.

Results:
Of the 105 cases recruited, the mean age of the sample and their first sexual activity were 21 and 18 respectively. Forty-four participants (41.9%) did not know the male HPV vaccine was available. After visual-based education, the participants recorded a change of +0.35 in the need for HPV vaccine(p-value: