AI-SUPPORTED HPV SELF-SAMPLING AND DIGITAL FOLLOW-UP PATHWAYS IN CERVICAL CANCER PREVENTION: EQUITY, ACCEPTABILITY, AND IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES IN HPV-VACCINATED POPULATIONS (2022-2026): A NARRATIVE REVIEW
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31435/ijitss.3(51).2026.5899Keywords:
Cervical Cancer Prevention; HPV Self-sampling; Artificial Intelligence; Digital Follow-up; Health Equity; HPV-vaccinated PopulationsAbstract
Background: Cervical Cancer Prevention has undergone a tremendous transformation over the years as a result of Primary HPV Testing, HPV Vaccination, Self-Sampling, Digital Follow-Up and New Artificial Intelligence Tools. As such these changes will be relevant socially and clinically in regards to Equity, Acceptability, Implementation and Governance.
Objectives: To summarize peer reviewed articles that have been written about HPV Self Sampling, Digital Support for Follow Up and AI enabled Pathways for Cervical Cancer Prevention since January 1st 2022- through March 31st 2026, specifically looking at Underserved Populations, Under Screened Populations, Vaccinated Populations.
Methodology: A Structured Narrative Search of Peer Reviewed Articles was conducted using Pubmed MEDLINE, Scopus and Google Scholar. When identifying Evidence related to Self Sampling, Digital Communication, Triage/Workflow supported by AI and Program Equity we prioritized Guidelines and Reports focused on Implementation.
Results: Recent Literature indicated that HPV Self Sampling could increase Access and Participation among the Under Screened Population. However, it's success would depend on successful Linkage to Follow-Up. Digital Technologies could potentially Improve Communication, Provide Navigation Through Screening Programs and Strengthen Coordination. However, They could Reproduce Exclusion if there is Limited Access to Technology and/or Digital Literacy. AI is currently in the earliest stages of development for Image Based Support and Workflow Optimization. There is Very Limited Evidence Available regarding Routine Use of AI for Pathway Level Screening. Vaccinated Populations will likely need More Adaptive Risk Informed Screening Protocols then Less Screening.
Conclusions: HPV Self Sampling, Digital Follow-Up and Selective Applications of AI can Enhance Cervical Cancer Prevention if Equitable Care Pathways exist and are Well Governed.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Victoria Stielow, Michal Marusza, Aleksander Krupski, Antonina Zatyka
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