Exploring Awareness, Beliefs, and Perceptions of HPV and Cervical Cancer Prevention Among Cape Verdean Immigrant Mothers in Massachusetts, United States: A Qualitative Study

Cape Verdean immigrants are a growing yet understudied population in the United States (U.S.), with limited data on HPV and cervical cancer prevention knowledge. This descriptive qualitative study explored awareness, knowledge, beliefs, and perceptions related to HPV and cervical cancer prevention among Cape Verdean immigrant mothers of children aged 11–17 residing in Massachusetts, a state in the northeastern U.S. A qualitative descriptive design was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 27 Cape Verdean immigrant mothers of adolescents aged 11–17 residing in the study area. Interviews were transcribed, translated, and analyzed thematically using inductive and deductive approaches guided by the literature and emergent narratives. MAXQDA was used for data management, and coding reliability was established through independent review by bilingual researchers. Participants demonstrated varying levels of awareness, ranging from comprehensive understanding to limited knowledge. Two major themes emerged: (1) knowledge and beliefs about cervical cancer and (2) knowledge and beliefs about HPV. Findings revealed fragmented knowledge, misconceptions about screening and transmission, and gendered perceptions of HPV as a “women’s issue.” While many mothers valued prevention and recognized HPV’s link to cervical cancer, uncertainties remained regarding vaccination, screening recommendations, and vaccine effectiveness. Findings highlight the need for culturally and linguistically tailored interventions addressing HPV misinformation, strengthening parental confidence, and supporting Cape Verdean mothers as informed health decision-makers to improve HPV vaccination and cervical cancer prevention.