Accelerating Cervical Cancer Screening in Indonesia: A Review of Implementation Barriers and Strategies

Abstract

Introduction: Cervical cancer remains a significant public health burden in Indonesia; one of the primary reasons is low screening rates. Due to the importance of screening to prevent progression of cervical pre-cancer, it is important to understand the implementation barriers or challenges to screening and explore strategies or interventions that can address these barriers. Method: A narrative review of articles was conducted. Databases searched for articles included PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Garuda, Neliti, and Google Scholar. Inclusion criteria were that studies must discuss topics related to barriers to cervical cancer screening in Indonesia and strategies to address these barriers, be published in the last ten years, and be published in English or Bahasa Indonesia. Result: Primary barriers: (1) individual and psychosocial; (2) socio-cultural; and (3) health system and logistical. Key strategies: (1) leveraging HPV self-sampling; (2) leveraging existing technological infrastructure; and (3) empowering a network of community health workers and digital health platforms. Conclusion: This review highlights the need of integrated system with sustained political will and collaboration to ensure this comprehensive strategy, from technology-enabled screening to systematic and accessible treatment pathways, is implemented effectively, equitably, and successfully.