Abstract B115: Knowledge, attitudes, and barriers to HPV vaccination in binational Indigenous communities: A case study of the Cucapá in the Mexico–US border region

Abstract This exploratory study analyzes the knowledge, attitudes, and sociocultural barriers that influence the acceptance of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in the Indigenous Cucapá community of Mexicali, Baja California. Through semi-structured interviews with mothers, adolescents, and health promoters, the study identified limited awareness of HPV and its link to cervical cancer, as well as distrust of the healthcare system and a lack of information in culturally relevant languages and contexts. In fact, more than 80% of the community remains unvaccinated. The main barriers identified include restricted access to healthcare services, the absence of tailored educational campaigns, and traditional beliefs that influence decision-making regarding sexual and reproductive health. Despite this, positive attitudes toward disease prevention were also observed when information was clear, respectful, and delivered by trusted community actors. The findings underscore the need for culturally sensitive vaccination programs that actively involve community leaders and healthcare personnel trained in intercultural approaches. This strategy is essential to closing preventive health gaps and advancing equity in Indigenous borderland communities. Citation Format: Maria Josse Navarro Ibarra, Daniela G. Gonzalez Valencia, Linda Lara Jacobo, Kenia Carrillo Borrallo, Glenda Diaz Ramirez, Vanessa Davila Conn. Knowledge, attitudes, and barriers to HPV vaccination in binational Indigenous communities: A case study of the Cucapá in the Mexico–US border region [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 18th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities; 2025 Sep 18-21; Baltimore, MD. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2025;34(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B115.