Development of a Digital Platform to Support Leprosy Elimination Efforts in Thailand

Abstract

Leprosy remains a significant public health issue in Thailand despite a declining trend in cases. Challenges such as delayed case reporting, lack of standardization, unclear communication, and technical limitations hinder effective disease monitoring and control, impacting global efforts toward eradication. In alignment with the WHO’s Zero Leprosy policy, this study analyzes innovative approaches for eliminating leprosy in Thailand.
A 10-year retrospective review (2015 - 2024) was conducted using research databases including PubMed and Google Scholar. Articles were selected based on keywords related to digital platforms, AI, GIS, and chatbots to develop and assess the feasibility of technology-driven solutions supporting the Zero Leprosy initiative. Results revealed substantial research on leprosy, with 7,528 articles on PubMed, 9,282 on ScienceDirect, and 84,900 on Google Scholar. AI applications for leprosy screening numbered 202, 307, and 17,800 articles, respectively, while GIS-related research included 11, 62, and 5,170 articles. Studies on chatbots or mobile applications numbered 59, 155, and 9,220 articles across these platforms.
The study proposes a Digital Platform concept to enhance leprosy elimination efforts in Thailand. AI improves diagnostic accuracy, patient follow-up, and information dissemination in remote areas, reducing treatment delays, enhancing diagnostic precision, and minimizing disability risks. GIS technology enables tracking treatment coverage, monitoring disease spread, and linking agencies through patient travel data and timelines for effective outbreak control. Lastly, chatbots or mobile applications provide 24/7 information on leprosy prevention and treatment, answer FAQs, and store conversation data to refine communication strategies and patient care. Therefore, these innovations have the potential to drive leprosy elimination in Thailand under the WHO's Zero Leprosy policy.