How Artificial Intelligence is Helping to Detect Skin NTDs in Kenya

The WHO recently presented the preliminary results of the first real-world study of the Skin NTDs app, with promising implications. The app is an innovative AI tool designed for the diagnosis and management of skin-related neglected tropical diseases (skin NTDs). 

Skin diseases are a major public health concern in Kenya, accounting for 10–30% of outpatient consultations. There is also a shortage of dermatologists in the country, further exacerbating the problem.

The research was conducted by the WHO together with the Special Program for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases, the UOC, the Catalan Health Institute, the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and the University of Bristol. 

The initial findings are the result of fieldwork done across Kenya, where 40 frontline primary care workers from the Ministry of Health used the app to diagnose skin conditions based on 605 images obtained in 2024.

Findings show that the Skin NTDs app has an average sensitivity of 80% compared to diagnoses made by certified dermatologists. A user satisfaction survey resulted in an average score of 3.82 out of 5, while numerous focus groups gave a rating of 8 out of 10.

Researchers note that the app has also boosted healthcare workers’ confidence and increased their colleagues’ and patients’ trust in their diagnostic abilities.

The WHO plans to extend the research further afield to Brazil, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire and India in the coming years. This app represents another exciting step forward in providing better access to healthcare in resource-limited settings.