Objective. To explore social factors that influence male engagement in HPV cancer prevention efforts (i.e., HPV-vaccine uptake and completion). Research Question. What discourses are used when men/males talk about HPV, and how have they shape their history of health-seeking/healthcare-engagement in HPV cancer prevention?

Methods. This qualitative study used in-depth group-interview methodology, conducted virtually via Zoom, during 2022 in the El Paso, TX-U.S.A. area. There was a total of thirteen (n=13) adult male participants (ages 18 – 35 years old), grouped into four (n=4) group interview sessions. A semi-structured interview guide—in both the English and Spanish language—was informed using an ecosocial perspective, exploring (1) general demographic/background information, (2) understanding and thoughts about HPV, and (3) possible impacts COVID-19 may have on receiving information about HPV and related needs in the El Paso area. Discourse analysis research methodology was used to analyze discourse as a form of “social practice”, exploring how meaning is socially constructed.

Preliminary Findings. Participants described various incidents surrounding perceived stigma/discrimination and acts of positive deviance to receive information and health services related to sexual health and HPV cancer prevention. Specifically, participants described ways to of making recommendations relating to inclusive health.

Key words: human papillomavirus (HPV), men’s health, health-seeking behaviors, vaccine behaviors, El Paso, TX, U.S.A.