We are honoured to present an innovative educational initiative addressing cervical health equity for multicultural youth: “Developing and Implementing an Educational Program for Cervical Health, Healthy Lifestyles, and HPV Vaccination for Female Chinese and Non-Chinese-Speaking Students", co-authored by Dr. Laurie LK Ho and Dr. Dorothy NS Chan from The Nethersole School of Nursing, Chinese University of Hong Kong.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle and receiving Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination are crucial for preventing HPV infections and cervical cancer, making it essential to initiate these practices during adolescence. In Hong Kong, however, there is a lack of focus on promoting cervical health and preventing HPV infections within the secondary school sex education curriculum. While initiatives have primarily targeted Chinese-speaking students, few address the needs of non-Chinese-speaking students. Given Hong Kong’s multicultural society, it is vital that all students, regardless of their linguistic background, have equal access to health information that protects their well-being. Thus, there is a need for an educational program that effectively targets both Chinese and non-Chinese-speaking students in secondary schools.
Reflecting on a recent educational program developed for female Chinese and non-Chinese-speaking students, we aimed to promote cervical health, healthy lifestyles, and HPV vaccination. Creating an effective program required careful planning and cultural sensitivity. Our initiative included a health talk and a tutorial session designed to enhance students’ understanding of HPV, its associated infections, cervical cancer, and preventive measures. The health talk provided foundational knowledge, while the tutorial session focused on addressing myths and misconceptions.
To support these sessions, we developed a variety of educational materials, including PowerPoint presentations, booklets, matching exercises, and case scenarios. The development process followed a multi-step approach. Initially, an outline of the content was created, followed by the selection of different formats to facilitate effective content presentation. Meetings with a graphic designer ensured that graphics were tailored to the interests and comprehension levels of both Chinese and non-Chinese-speaking secondary school girls. Additionally, project team meetings integrated relevant life skills and positive values regarding cervical health and HPV vaccination into the materials.
Successful implementation of the educational program required considering several factors. First, the literacy levels of the students influenced the scope of the health content. Thus, medical jargon was avoided, using simple language, infographics, and cartoons to clarify complex concepts. Bilingual materials were prepared in both Chinese and English to ensure accessibility. Second, the information had to be engaging to stimulate interest in learning. The sequence of materials was finalized: PowerPoint presentations provided knowledge input; booklets served as reminders; interactive matching exercises addressed myths; and scenario-based discussions encouraged practical application of knowledge. Bilingual facilitators guided these discussions, fostering an inclusive environment.
User experience with the educational materials was also paramount. Before implementation, three secondary school girls reviewed the content, providing valuable feedback, especially on sections addressing myths about HPV vaccines. Their insights led to important modifications. Additionally, cultural practices concerning sensitive topics were respected by conducting the program in a female-only classroom setting.
After the program, feedback from students indicated that the program was engaging and inspiring, with accessible and useful information. They appreciated the clarity of the materials and the supportive atmosphere fostered by bilingual facilitators.
By offering bilingual resources and fostering an inclusive environment, we equip adolescents with the knowledge to make informed health decisions. This program not only promotes individual well-being but also enhances community health awareness.
Author’s organisation: The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, the Chinese University of Hong Kong
Email: longkwanho@cuhk.edu.hk dorothycns@cuhk.edu.hk
