Erika Thompson, PhD, MPH, CPH

My research interests address sexual and reproductive health, and maternal and child health issues. Most of my research is centered on human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and prevention among women and adolescents. HPV prevention is critical for reducing cancer morbidity and mortality, specifically cervical, anogenital, and oropharyngeal cancers. Using mixed-methods approaches, I have examined HPV vaccine decision-making among young adult women, reasons for non-vaccination among parents, and alternative healthcare providers and settings for HPV prevention. In addition to these studies, I have explored emerging reproductive health topics, such as Zika virus and long-acting reversible contraception (LARC).
I am currently a co-investigator on a study to examine the implementation of Zika virus prevention guidelines into OB/GYN practice in Florida. I am also collaborating on a quality improvement program to promote immediate postpartum LARC use among women. Throughout all of these studies, I utilize mixed-methodologies, secondary data approaches, and public health theory to guide my research.