The impact of digital health technologies on tuberculosis treatment: a systematic review

What is it about?

Digital technologies are increasingly harnessed to support treatment of persons with tuberculosis (TB). These technologies may have the potential to improve adherence and clinical outcomes. We searched bibliographical databases for studies reporting the effect of text messaging, video-observed therapy, and electronic devices for monitoring medication doses, to support treatment for active TB. In four studies, text messaging did not have a significant effect on treatment completion, when compared with standard care alone. Two studies of video-observed treatment reported comparable completion compared with in-person observation. In one study, electronic dose monitoring was associated with improved cure rates; in another, it was associated with fewer missed doses. However, the number of studies was small, and more research is needed to determine the optimal use of these technologies to support TB treatment.

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