Applicability of the levels of the socio-ecological model in the context of cervical cancer prevention: a scoping review.

purposeTo map the evidence addressing the use of social ecological model (SEM) in cervical cancer (CC) prevention.

methodsThe Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guideline was followed for conducting this scoping review. A search was conducted in thirteen databases, updated in July 2025. Primary quantitative and qualitative studies addressing the use of SEM in CC prevention were included, with no restrictions on time or language. Findings are reported in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR extension for scoping reviews.

results80 studies were included. Of these, 56.2% addressed primary prevention, 45% secondary prevention, and 10% tertiary prevention. Regarding SEM levels, 92.5% examined intrapersonal, 86.3% interpersonal, 75% organizational, 67.5% community, and 50% public policy. Overall, 35% addressed all five SEM levels. The barriers to CC prevention include lack of knowledge, low educational level, financial difficulties, lack of trust in healthcare services and professionals, religious and cultural beliefs, fear, absence of professional recommendation and guidance, lack of social and family support, time constraints, limited access to healthcare services, high costs, and lack of health insurance. The facilitators include knowledge and awareness, higher educational level, risk perception, trust in providers and healthcare services, professional recommendation and guidance, social and family support, facilitated access to services, health insurance coverage, and adequate funding.

conclusionThe application of the SEM and the understanding of its multiple levels in the context of CC prevention, as well as the identification of barriers and facilitators, can significantly contribute to the development of targeted interventions and comprehensive strategies aimed at its prevention.