249 Cervical cancer prevention gaps among minority women in Northwest Louisiana

Objectives/Goals: To identify barriers to HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening among Black and Hispanic women in Northwest Louisiana as a first step toward developing community-driven strategies to eliminate cervical cancer in the state. Methods/Study Population: This cross-sectional study includes women aged 18–45 years who identify as Black or Hispanic. Participants are recruited through multiple methods, including community health fairs, churches, clinics, and snowball recruitment through peer referrals. Surveys are administered via REDCap in English and Spanish. We plan to enroll 260 women; this preliminary analysis includes 70. Structured surveys collect data on HPV awareness, provider offer, vaccination history, and cervical cancer screening. Sociodemographic characteristics and access factors are analyzed to describe prevention gaps. The study was approved by the LSUHS IRB (#00002755). Results/Anticipated Results: Preliminary findings reveal major prevention gaps. Nearly half (46%) had never heard of HPV, and 43% had never heard of the HPV vaccine. Among those aware, 59% reported never being offered the vaccine, and 76% had never received it. While 69% believed the HPV vaccine prevents cervical cancer and 21% said it prevents genital warts, nearly half (49%) were unsure about its effectiveness. Among mothers, 31% were willing to vaccinate their children, and 7% had already done so. For cervical cancer screening, 86% had a Pap test; however, 20% were not up to date. Among those screened for cervical cancer, most reported their last test was over three years ago. Participants were on average 33.2 years old (SD = 8.1), predominantly Black (74%) or Hispanic (26%), with 57% single, 66% employed full-time, and 72% insured. Discussion/Significance of Impact: Eliminating cervical cancer in Louisiana requires equitable access to HPV vaccination and screening. This study identifies important prevention gaps in minority women and demonstrates how community-based approaches can inform targeted interventions to achieve cervical cancer elimination.