"Why to vaccinate her? She’s just a girl": Exploring Challenges and Opportunities in Cervical Cancer Care in India

Cervical cancer is a major global public health issue and ranks as the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has set an ambitious target to eliminate it by 2030. Yet, in low- and middle-income countries like India, the burden remains alarmingly high—it is the second most common cancer among women. Despite being largely preventable through vaccination and early screening, the disease's prevalence continues to be a significant challenge. This study explores the factors contributing to the high prevalence of cervical cancer in India, assesses awareness levels, and identifies potential technological interventions to address this issue. We conducted this study using a mixed-method approach, including surveys (n=177) and interviews (n=29) with key stakeholders such as the general public, doctors, women who had undergone cervical cancer screening, and patients. Our findings revealed a concerning lack of awareness about cervical cancer along with a pervasive disregard for women's health, underscoring the need for technological interventions that could help bridge these gaps. From this research, we are suggesting ways to alleviate the cervical cancer burden and identify avenues for HCI researchers to pursue further research, thereby enhancing the body of knowledge in women's health research.