Mobile technology and cancer screening: Lessons from rural India

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Digital Health
• Oncology

Background:

• Cervical and oral cancer rates are high in India, with poor survival due to late detection.
• Limited screening programs and infrastructure hinder early diagnosis in rural areas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a mobile health (mHealth) supported cancer screening intervention.
• To assess the feasibility and acceptability of mHealth for community health workers (CHWs) in low-health-literacy populations.

Main Methods:

• Developed and implemented an mHealth prototype for cervical and oral cancer screening in three rural Indian sites.
• Screening was conducted by CHWs using visual inspection methods, supported by nurses.
• Evaluated screening uptake, follow-up attendance, and gathered qualitative data on user experience and barriers.

Main Results:

• Screened 8686 individuals, primarily for oral cancer (98%).
• Positivity rates were 28% for cervical and 5% for oral cancer screening, with 37% and 31% follow-up attendance, respectively.
• CHWs found the mHealth prototype reliable, and it positively impacted their social standing, though barriers to follow-up persist.

Conclusions:

• mHealth interventions can facilitate cancer screening in underserved rural communities.
• mHealth is insufficient to overcome significant social, cultural, and financial barriers to screening and follow-up.
• Integrated approaches combining mHealth, community education, and clear diagnostic/treatment pathways are crucial for success.