Digital tools to enhance adherence to cervical cancer prevention practices: systematic review
Abstract
Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and regular cervical screening are fundamental pillars of the World Health Organization (WHO) strategy to eliminate cervical cancer. While conventional one-way digital notifications moderately support preventive uptake, the specific behavioral impact of two-way, interactive patient-facing digital assistants-such as conversational artificial intelligence (AI) and gamified health applications-warrants rigorous, isolated synthesis.
Objective: To systematically assess whether patient-facing interactive digital assistants are associated with improved initiation and completion of HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening, strictly distinguishing between formative usability evidence and clinical effectiveness.
Methods: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines and PROSPERO registration (CRD420261333651), six academic databases were systematically searched (January 1, 2016-February 10, 2026). Eligible interventions were limited to interactive patient-facing digital tools. Data synthesis utilized a structured narrative approach, applying the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT 2018) for individual domain risk of bias and GRADE principles for evidence certainty.
Results: The synthesis included 14 reports representing 13 independent studies. Formative evaluations indicated high usability and user acceptability. Within behavioral trials, conversational AI chatbots showed promising effects for short-term increases in HPV vaccine appointment…
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Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.
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