AI-Powered Screening Offers Hope in Indonesia’s Fight Against Cervical cancer
Table of Contents
Indonesia faces a critical challenge in combating cervical cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. Despite being one of the most preventable cancers through screening and early detection, national coverage remains alarmingly low, reaching only around 7% in 2023 – far short of the World Health Association’s (WHO) recommended 70% target for 2030.
The HPV Connection and Screening Challenges
A key characteristic of cervical cancer, as emphasized by a senior official at the Indonesian Ministry of Health, is its clear link to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). “Almost all of the causes of cancer are unknown, except for cervical cancer, which is 90 percent caused by the HPV virus,” the official stated. This understanding underscores the importance of widespread screening, especially through HPV DNA testing and visual inspection with acetic acid (IVA).
Currently, the IVA method serves as the primary screening tool in Indonesian primary healthcare settings. Though, its reliance on the visual assessment of healthcare workers introduces potential inconsistencies in interpretation. this subjectivity can led to missed diagnoses and delayed treatment.
Bridging the Gap with Artificial Intelligence
In response to these challenges, digital technology, and specifically Artificial Intelligence (AI), is emerging as a promising solution to enhance the quality and accessibility of early detection services. HerLens is at the forefront of this innovation, developing a camera-based AI technology integrated into smartphones to improve the accuracy and consistency of IVA interpretation.
The technology aims to provide clinical decision support, particularly in regions with limited access to specialist doctors. According to Nidya Anifa, Co-founder of HerLens, the goal is to address service gaps. “Inclusive technology can bridge the service gap between urban and rural areas,” Anifa explained. Data collected from Bojonegoro and Bengkulu indicates that both women and healthcare workers report increased confidence in screening procedures when the process is perceived as easier and more accurate.
BrightHer Program: Expanding Access and Training
Throughout 2025, the BrightHer program has provided free AI-based IVA-DoVIA screening services to 391 women across the Jabodetabek, Bengkulu, and Bojonegoro areas.Furthermore, the program has trained over 75 doctors and midwives in utilizing HerLens AI technology. This complete training encompasses clinical material, practical field experience, and rigorous quality assurance protocols, all designed to elevate the standard of screening services in primary healthcare facilities.
The BrightHer program also focuses on public and healthcare worker education regarding cervical cancer prevention and the benefits of early detection technologies.
securing the Future of Women’s Health
HerLens’s innovative approach has garnered significant support, including early-stage funding from 22 Health Venture through the NUS School of Medicine Digital Health accelerator, and also grants from the YSEALI Seeds for the Future program and the Nation’s Best Minds initiative. This financial backing will accelerate technology progress, expand health worker training, and foster collaboration with regional health facilities.
By combining a technology-based
Why is this happening? Indonesia has a high rate of cervical cancer deaths due to low screening coverage. The primary screening method, IVA, is subjective and prone to inconsistencies.
Who is involved? the Indonesian Ministry of Health, HerLens (a tech company co-founded by Nidya Anifa), 22 Health Venture, NUS school of Medicine, YSEALI Seeds for the future, the Nation’s Best Minds initiative, doctors, midwives, and women in Jabodetabek, Bengkulu, and Bojonegoro.
What is being done? HerLens is developing AI-powered
