Using digital health to bridge contraceptive gaps for young people in conflict affected cameroon
1
Digital Health, Youth 2 Youth Cameroon, Bamenda, Cameroon
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):A812
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION:
Access to contraception remains a major challenge for young people in the northwest-region of cameroon due to ongoing sociopolitical instability, cultural taboos and disruption of health services. The crisis has limited the availability of family planning services and reliable information particularly for youth. Digital health interventions offer potential to bridge these gaps but evidence from conflict-affected settings remains limited. NANG app was developed as a youth driven digital solution to improve contraceptive knowledge and access by providing accurate information connecting users to providers and supporting service uptake. This study assesses the effectiveness of NANG app in improving contraceptive knowledge and access among young people.
METHODS:
The study was conducted in the northwest region of cameroon using a mixed methods design. Data were collected between april and december 2024 through surveys focus group discussions and app usage records. The sample included 500young people aged 15-29 as well as healthcare providers and community leaders. Quantitative pre-and-post surveys measured changes in contraceptive knowledge and reported use. Qualitative interviews explored user experiences acceptability and implementation challenges. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically.
RESULTS:
Use of the NANG app was associated with improved contraceptive knowledge and access. Before implementation 35% of participants reported knowing where to obtain contraceptives compared to 70% after app use. Contraceptive uptake among users increased by 40% with the largest increase observed among young women aged 20-24. Participants reported that the anonymity and confidentiality of the app reduced stigma related barriers to seeking information and services. Key challenges included limited internet connectivity and smartphone access. Engagement of youth leaders increased trust and community acceptance.
CONCLUSIONS:
Youth led digital health interventions can improve contraceptive knowledge and access in conflict affected settings. Integrating community participation with digital tools offers a promising approach to addressing family planning barriers among young people in crisis contexts.
Access to contraception remains a major challenge for young people in the northwest-region of cameroon due to ongoing sociopolitical instability, cultural taboos and disruption of health services. The crisis has limited the availability of family planning services and reliable information particularly for youth. Digital health interventions offer potential to bridge these gaps but evidence from conflict-affected settings remains limited. NANG app was developed as a youth driven digital solution to improve contraceptive knowledge and access by providing accurate information connecting users to providers and supporting service uptake. This study assesses the effectiveness of NANG app in improving contraceptive knowledge and access among young people.
METHODS:
The study was conducted in the northwest region of cameroon using a mixed methods design. Data were collected between april and december 2024 through surveys focus group discussions and app usage records. The sample included 500young people aged 15-29 as well as healthcare providers and community leaders. Quantitative pre-and-post surveys measured changes in contraceptive knowledge and reported use. Qualitative interviews explored user experiences acceptability and implementation challenges. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically.
RESULTS:
Use of the NANG app was associated with improved contraceptive knowledge and access. Before implementation 35% of participants reported knowing where to obtain contraceptives compared to 70% after app use. Contraceptive uptake among users increased by 40% with the largest increase observed among young women aged 20-24. Participants reported that the anonymity and confidentiality of the app reduced stigma related barriers to seeking information and services. Key challenges included limited internet connectivity and smartphone access. Engagement of youth leaders increased trust and community acceptance.
CONCLUSIONS:
Youth led digital health interventions can improve contraceptive knowledge and access in conflict affected settings. Integrating community participation with digital tools offers a promising approach to addressing family planning barriers among young people in crisis contexts.
| eISSN: | 2654-1459 |
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