Addressing Cervical Cancer and Precursors in the Midlife Nigerian Woman: Role of Digital Health Technologies in Improving Health Interventions

Abstract

Cervical cancer is the eighth most common cause of cancer mortality in women, with the most burden in low- and lower-middle-income countries. Nigeria contributes significantly with an incidence of 26.2 per 100,000 women, with over half succumbing to the disease. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and early regular cervical cancer screening are recognised preventive interventions. Following the introduction in the last few years, there has been variable uptake of these interventions due to several barriers such as limited literacy, socio-cultural bias, and historical events leading to vaccine mistrust and poor engagement with screening/ vaccination programmes, poor disease awareness, complicated by inadequate health policy formulation, poor health infrastructure, and accessibility. Digital health technologies can help bridge this gap by delivering tailored information to enhance awareness among individuals and clinicians, increasing screening uptake, and strengthening risk awareness through an iterative risk registry model. Additionally, these tools can offer patient-friendly approaches to reduce high-risk behaviours, ensure follow-up, and support access to appropriate treatment services. There is ongoing work with initial studies demonstrating success in increasing patient engagement and improving diagnostic precision. These interventions, with continued investment in digital health technologies, allow for targeted strategies, relative to need and circumstances, that will improve equity and sustainability.