The role of digital health technology in tuberculosis control: a systematic literature review and comparative analysis based on the WHO guidelines

International summary

Abstract

This study presents a systematic review with the objective of evaluating the utilisation of digital technology in the surveillance of Tuberculosis (TB) within the context of public health, and of determining the extent to which this practice aligns with the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation. The methodology was divided into two distinct phases. In the initial phase, a systematic literature review was conducted utilising the Prism and the Parsifal tool. Subsequently, the digital technologies identified in the selected articles were analysed in accordance with WHO documentation and a patient-centred approach. From an initial pool of 2090 articles, nine studies were meticulously selected, including impactful research from regions such as India, China, Uganda, Sudan, Indonesia, Ukraine, Tanzania, South Africa an Philippines. These studies demonstrate that digital technologies have a beneficial impact. The digital technologies that have been highlighted as offering the most promising advancements in the field of TB surveillance, addressing existing challenges and integrating digital solutions seamlessly into TB control programmes, remain pivotal. In order to eradicate TB as a global health threat, future endeavours must focus on refining digital interventions, overcoming barriers and ensuring equitable access.