How Information Exposure Shapes Risk Perceptions and Vaccination Intentions Among Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex With Men: Cross-Sectional Survey Study

Abstract

Background: Exposure to information about mpox may shape distinct perceptual processes that influence vaccination intent. Understanding how such information impacts perceived risk and vaccination intention is crucial for designing effective risk communication and public health messaging, particularly among populations at high risk such as gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM). Objective: This study examined the specific pathways through which mpox information exposure and associated perceptual processes influence vaccination intent. Differences between GBMSM in Beijing and Hong Kong were also examined to explore potential contextual influences. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of mpox-unvaccinated GBMSM in Hong Kong (n=470) and Beijing (n=519) between November 2023 and March 2024. Structural equation modeling was conducted to estimate the direct and indirect effects of information exposure, perceptual processes (eg, perceived control and threat perceptions), and perceived risk on vaccination intent. Multigroup structural equation modeling was used to estimate the effect measure modification by city. Results: Exposure to positive mpox information significantly enhanced perceived control (β=0.33; P=.001) and increased vaccination intention through heightened perceived risk of contracting mpox (β=0.27; P