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Awareness and Acceptability of the HPV Vaccine Among Haitian Migrant Women in South Florida
Location: 7
Mentor: Dr. Dominique Guillaume
Background:
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the leading cause of cervical cancer, a major contributor to cancer-related deaths among women. In the U.S., approximately 12,000 women are diagnosed annually, with 4,000 deaths. Haitian women face higher rates of cervical cancer, often diagnosed at later stages due to healthcare barriers. In South Florida, newly arrived Haitian migrants encounter similar challenges, including language barriers and reliance on traditional remedies instead of preventive care. While many trust Western medicine, they often seek it for treatment rather than prevention. This study explores Haitian women's knowledge, perceptions, and acceptance of the HPV vaccine.
Methods:
This study was conducted at two Miami-based organizations: Family Action Network Movement (FANM) and the Center for Haitian Studies (CHS). Using purposeful sampling, 25 Haitian women participated in structured interviews in Haitian Creole. Questions assessed their health practices, knowledge of cervical cancer, HPV, and the HPV vaccine, and barriers to preventive care. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using Atlas.ti.
Results:
While most participants were aware of cervical cancer, few knew about HPV or its link to the disease. Awareness of the HPV vaccine was low, with most unaware it could prevent cervical cancer. After receiving information, 48% (n=12) were willing to get vaccinated, 28% (n=7) were uncertain, and 24% (n=6) declined.
Conclusion:
These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions, including free cervical cancer screenings, HPV testing, health literacy programs, and expanded vaccine access to improve prevention among Haitian migrant women.
