Introduction

Young women around the globe face significant challenges such as unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. Alarmingly, adolescents and young people aged 15-24 represent 42% of new HIV infections worldwide. Addressing these issues through education is crucial, especially in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa.

Challenges in Lesotho

Lesotho, a country with the second-highest HIV prevalence, struggles with limited healthcare personnel and difficult terrain, hindering face-to-face health education. To combat these challenges, researchers are turning to innovative solutions.

Conversational AI as a Solution

A study published in BMC Global and Public Health explored the use of conversational AI technology to disseminate sexual and reproductive health information. Led by Elizabeth Nkabane Nkholongo, Ph.D., the research highlights the potential of e-health solutions in low-income countries (link).

Introducing Nthabi

The study adapted an Embodied Conversational Agent (ECA) model named “Gabby” to create “Nthabi,” a virtual nurse midwife tailored to the cultural context of young Lesotho women. This adaptation was made possible by the widespread use of mobile technologies in the region.

Effectiveness of Nthabi

Researchers recruited 172 young women to use the Nthabi app, measuring their knowledge before and after interactions on topics like family planning and folic acid use. Results showed a significant increase in correct responses, demonstrating the app’s effectiveness.

Overcoming Barriers

Nthabi’s success suggests that such technology can overcome barriers in traditional education, particularly in areas with fewer healthcare workers and geographic challenges. It also helps reduce the stigma surrounding sexual reproductive health discussions.

Future Implications

Brian Jack, MD, President of LeBoHA, emphasizes the potential of Nthabi as a tool for population health education, contributing to Universal Health Coverage goals.

Conclusion

As the world moves towards achieving better health education, conversational AI like Nthabi offers promising solutions for reaching underserved populations.

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