AI App for Early Detection of Neglected Tropical Skin Diseases in Africa

Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts is developing an AI-based app with international partners to diagnose skin diseases in sub-Saharan Africa. The goal is to improve early detection of neglected tropical skin diseases—especially in darker skin types that remain underrepresented in existing image databases.

Neglected tropical skin diseases (skin NTDs) primarily affect people in rural regions of sub-Saharan Africa. They are often diagnosed late and, if left untreated, can lead to severe health consequences as well as social stigma. Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU) is therefore participating in the international research project "SkincAIr," which is developing an AI-supported diagnostic solution for these conditions.

The Horizon Europe–funded project is coordinated by the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid and brings together African and European partner institutions. At its core is an AI-based app that analyzes skin changes using smartphone images and supports healthcare professionals in making diagnoses.

A central objective of the project is the targeted collection of image data from darker skin types. These are significantly underrepresented in existing dermatological databases, limiting the accuracy of many AI systems.

To train the AI, images are being collected from different regions of sub-Saharan Africa. A wide range of skin types, age groups, and cultural backgrounds is included to ensure reliable digital diagnostics across diverse populations.

Another advantage: the app is designed as free software and can be used offline. Collected data automatically synchronize once an internet connection becomes available. This facilitates use in remote areas with limited infrastructure.

"Our AI will help detect NTD skin diseases earlier, reduce transmission rates and treat patients more quickly. This relieves the burden on local health infrastructures and significantly improves care," says Gil Sharvit, project lead at HSLU.

The SkincAIr app is currently being tested in Kenya, Senegal, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Local clinics and research institutions are supporting data collection. To date, more than 7,000 images of skin diseases have been documented.

The long-term goal is to establish the largest publicly accessible dataset on neglected tropical skin diseases in sub-Saharan Africa. All data are collected in compliance with ethical standards, informed consent procedures, and strict anonymization protocols, and will be made freely available to researchers worldwide.

In addition to technological development, the project places strong emphasis on training local healthcare professionals. This approach aims to sustainably improve early detection of skin diseases and strengthen dermatological care in resource-limited regions.

MEDICA-tradefair.com; Source: Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts