Perceived Risk and HPV Vaccination Awareness Among Women in Rural and Underserved Communities in the State of Louisiana.

Abstract

Despite the availability of effective preventive measures, women in rural and underserved communities of Louisiana face health disparities regarding human papillomavirus infections. This study explores how perceived risk and socioeconomic factors, such as income, influence HPV vaccine awareness and attitudes toward HPV risk. A cross-sectional study was conducted among women in rural and underserved areas of Louisiana from November 2022 to December 2023. Participants were eligible to be included in the study if they were adult females aged 25 to 64 with no history of hysterectomy and no history of cervical cancer. We used convenience sampling through a mobile health unit that travels to rural and underserved areas of north and central Louisiana, offering cervical cancer screening. A total of 141 women participated in the study. Findings revealed significant gaps in HPV awareness and vaccination knowledge. Only 10.6% of participants considered themselves at risk for HPV. Higher HPV knowledge scores were positively associated with perceived HPV risk, increasing by approximately 20% per correct response. Approximately 40% of the participants were unaware of the existence of the HPV vaccine, 96.5% had never received the HPV vaccine, and 91.4% had never been offered it. Only 42% indicated that they would consider vaccination if offered. Addressing health disparities in rural Louisiana requires targeted interventions to improve healthcare access, education, and community engagement. Efforts to enhance education and awareness and foster community engagement should be prioritized.