Student Name
Capella University
NURS-FPX4055 Optimizing Population Health through Community Practice
Prof. Name
Date
Health Promotion Research
Mississippi offers a range of parks and recreational facilities, particularly in urban centers such as Jackson, that are frequently utilized by LGBTQ individuals for social interaction and wellness-related activities. These environments serve as supportive settings that promote physical activity, mental well-being, and social connectedness. In addition to recreation, such spaces can function as strategic venues for public health outreach. For example, HPV awareness campaigns, mobile health clinics, and community-based screening initiatives can be effectively implemented in these non-stigmatizing environments. Delivering education and preventive services in familiar, inclusive spaces enhances engagement and reduces barriers associated with traditional healthcare settings.
Population Analysis
Human papillomavirus (HPV) remains a significant public health concern within the LGBTQ population in Mississippi. This infection, one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections globally, disproportionately affects transgender women and men who have sex with men, increasing their susceptibility to cancers such as anal, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers. Although HPV vaccines are accessible through clinics and pharmacies, vaccination rates among LGBTQ adults remain comparatively lower than those observed in the general population (Hao et al., 2021).
Several contributing factors explain this disparity. Limited awareness about HPV, persistent stigma surrounding sexual health, and challenges in accessing inclusive and affirming healthcare services reduce vaccine uptake. Additionally, misconceptions—such as the belief that HPV primarily affects women—further discourage vaccination among LGBTQ individuals.
NURS FPX 4055 Assessment 1 Health Promotion Research
Socioeconomic barriers also play a critical role. Many individuals within this community experience housing instability, underemployment, and financial hardship, which restrict consistent access to healthcare services. Mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression, further diminish participation in preventive care.
Negative experiences within healthcare systems, including perceived discrimination or bias, discourage individuals from seeking follow-up care or vaccination (Magana et al., 2023). To address these issues, providing clear, culturally competent education about HPV risks and the benefits of vaccination is essential. Collaborative efforts between community clinics and public health organizations in Mississippi are increasingly focusing on inclusive outreach strategies to improve vaccination rates and reduce HPV-related disease burden.
Underlying Assumptions
This analysis is based on several assumptions that influence the interpretation of findings and proposed interventions.
| Assumption | Explanation | Potential Limitation |
|---|---|---|
| Access to affirming care | Assumes LGBTQ individuals can access culturally competent healthcare services | Availability may vary by region |
| Community support presence | Presumes existence of supportive organizations and outreach programs | Not all individuals may be connected to these networks |
| Reliable vaccination data | Assumes accurate reporting of HPV vaccination rates | Limited data for subgroups, especially transgender populations |
| Economic stability impact | Recognizes financial barriers affecting healthcare access | Variability in socioeconomic conditions may alter outcomes |
These assumptions highlight uncertainties that may affect the effectiveness of health promotion strategies, particularly in underserved or rural areas.
Characteristics of Chosen Community
The LGBTQ population in Mississippi is diverse, encompassing individuals with varying sexual orientations, gender identities, racial backgrounds, and socioeconomic statuses. Unlike larger metropolitan areas, Mississippi lacks concentrated LGBTQ neighborhoods; instead, individuals often rely on informal networks, advocacy groups, and community-based organizations for support and identity affirmation.
These community structures are critical for effective health promotion. Trusted environments foster engagement, enhance communication, and improve participation in health initiatives (Hao et al., 2021). Programs delivered through these channels are more likely to resonate with the target population.
However, significant health disparities persist. High rates of housing insecurity, unemployment, and limited access to consistent healthcare services negatively impact preventive health behaviors, including routine screenings and HPV vaccination.
Community-based organizations play a pivotal role in mitigating these challenges by offering health education, outreach services, and assistance in navigating healthcare systems. Their involvement creates opportunities to expand HPV awareness and prevention efforts in culturally appropriate ways (Magana et al., 2023).
Importance of Health Concern
HPV is a major contributor to cancer risk among LGBTQ individuals in Mississippi, particularly for anal, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers. In the United States, approximately 42 million individuals are currently infected, with around 13 million new cases reported annually (Adekanmbi et al., 2024). Importantly, vaccination can prevent nearly 90% of HPV-related cancers.
Despite this, vaccination coverage in Mississippi remains significantly low. Only about 30.5% of adolescents have completed the HPV vaccine series, ranking the state last nationally (Mississippi HPV Roundtable, 2025). Within the LGBTQ population, uptake is further reduced due to stigma, misinformation, and inconsistent access to affirming healthcare services.
Socioeconomic and demographic disparities intensify the issue. Barriers such as unstable housing, unemployment, and mental health challenges hinder healthcare engagement and adherence to vaccination schedules (Junejo & Sheikh, 2021). Furthermore, limited awareness that HPV affects more than just cervical cancer reduces motivation for preventive action.
Health promotion initiatives are therefore essential. By increasing awareness, addressing stigma, and improving access to inclusive services, these programs can promote equitable health outcomes and reduce HPV-related disease burden.
SMART Goals
Case Overview
John Davis is a 24-year-old Latino gay male residing in Jackson, Mississippi. He is sexually active with multiple partners and has not received the HPV vaccine. He holds misconceptions about HPV, believing it primarily affects women, and is uncertain about his personal cancer risk. However, he regularly attends a community clinic for HIV testing and is open to receiving additional health education.
Goal 1: Improve Knowledge
By the end of the educational session, John will be able to describe HPV and identify at least two cancers associated with the infection.
| SMART Component | Application |
|---|---|
| Specific | Understanding HPV and related cancers |
| Measurable | Identification of at least two cancers |
| Achievable | Through targeted education |
| Relevant | Addresses knowledge gaps |
| Time-bound | By end of session |
Goal 2: Promote Vaccination Behavior
By the conclusion of the session, John will schedule an HPV vaccination appointment within one month.
| SMART Component | Application |
|---|---|
| Specific | Booking vaccination appointment |
| Measurable | Confirmation of scheduled date |
| Achievable | Local services available |
| Relevant | Reduces cancer risk |
| Time-bound | Within one month |
Goal 3: Enhance Resource Utilization
Within one week, John will identify at least one LGBTQ-affirming healthcare provider for preventive services.
| SMART Component | Application |
|---|---|
| Specific | Identify affirming healthcare resource |
| Measurable | Name of provider given |
| Achievable | Resources available locally |
| Relevant | Encourages continued care |
| Time-bound | Within one week |
Conclusion
HPV prevention among LGBTQ individuals in Mississippi represents a critical public health priority. Structural inequalities, including socioeconomic challenges and limited access to inclusive healthcare, contribute to lower vaccination rates and increased cancer risk. Addressing these disparities requires culturally responsive health promotion strategies that emphasize education, accessibility, and trust-building within the community. Strengthening partnerships with LGBTQ-affirming organizations and improving outreach efforts can significantly enhance preventive care engagement and health outcomes.
References
Adekanmbi, V., Sokale, I., Guo, F., Ngo, J., Hoang, T. N., Hsu, C. D., Oluyomi, A., & Berenson, A. B. (2024). Human papillomavirus vaccination and human papillomavirus–related cancer rates. JAMA Network Open, 7(9). https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.31807
Ajibola, O., Davis, R. J., Lin, M. E., West, J. D., Kokot, N. C., & Chambers, T. (2024). Associations between risk perception, HPV knowledge, and vaccine uptake: Highlighting the LGBTQ+ population. Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, 170(6), 1684–1695. https://doi.org/10.1002/ohn.664
NURS FPX 4055 Assessment 1 Health Promotion Research
Hao, Z., Guo, Y., Bowling, J., & Ledenyi, M. (2021). Facilitators and barriers of HPV vaccine acceptance, initiation, and completion among the LGBTQ community in the U.S.: A systematic review. International Journal of Sexual Health, 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1080/19317611.2021.1989535
Junejo, M. H., & Sheikh, U. A. (2021). Human papillomavirus—Inequalities in disease prevention and the impact on racial, ethnic, sexual, and gender minorities. Pediatric Dermatology, 38(S2), 170–173. https://doi.org/10.1111/pde.14740
Kratzer, T. B., Star, J., Islami, F., Jemal, A., & Siegel, R. L. (2024). Cancer in people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or gender‐nonconforming. Cancer, 130(17). https://doi.org/10.1002/cncr.35355
NURS FPX 4055 Assessment 1 Health Promotion Research
Magana, K., Strand, L., Love, M., Moore, T., Peña, A., Ito Ford, A., & Vassar, M. (2023). Health inequities in human papillomavirus prevention, diagnostics and clinical care in the USA: A scoping review. Sexually Transmitted Infections, 99(2), 128–136. https://doi.org/10.1136/sextrans-2022-055587
Mississippi HPV Roundtable. (2025). Mississippi HPV roundtable. https://www.mshpvroundtable.org/