Interventions Delivered to Mothers to Promote Cervical Cancer Preventive Behaviors Among Young Women in Japan: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Objective: We conducted a scoping review to identify effective interventions delivered to mothers to promote cervical cancer prevention behaviors among young women in Japan and to explore research gaps in the literature.

Methods: The electronic databases PubMed, CINAHL and Ichushi Web were searched for original articles published in English and Japanese between June 2006 and August 4, 2024, describing cervical cancer prevention interventions delivered to mothers. Fourteen original research papers were analyzed.

Results: Effective intervention methods were identified that enhanced mothers’ intensions of cervical cancer prevention in their daughters. These included the distribution of media content recommending vaccination against human papillomavirus and incorporating kinship caregiving messages that encourage actions to protect children’s health and future, combined with educational information; narrative messages from mothers whose daughters have experienced cervical cancer; the distribution of information leaflets combined with information provided by physicians in face-to-face settings; and the mailing of individual vaccination invitation notifications and educational materials from local government. Future studies are needed to develop an effective media strategy to deliver educational materials, conduct long-term evaluations of intervention effects, and identify effective intervention strategies to promote cervical cancer screening targeted at mothers with daughters of approximately 20 years of age.

Conclusion: Effective interventions to promote cervical cancer prevention behaviors targeted at mothers were identified. These findings provide valuable insights for planning cervical cancer awareness and education programs.