Nepal, a landlocked country with rugged terrain and widespread rural communities, faces notable challenges in detecting and managing tuberculosis. In 2023, an estimated 68,000 people developed TB, with 16,000 deaths attributed to the disease. Over 31,000 people were missed from care, and nearly 2,500 are estimated to be living with drug-resistant TB, making early detection critical to reducing TB’s impact.
Our work in Nepal has focused on helping bridge diagnostic gaps through accessible and mobile solutions. In 2016, we partnered with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to introduce CAD4TB to the country. This marked the start of AI-supported TB screening efforts in Nepal.
Building on that, in 2023, the Ministry of Health and Population in Nepal deployed 3 Delft Light X-ray systems and the CAD4TB to strengthen its National Tuberculosis Program. The following year, we expanded support by delivering 6 more Delft Light systems, all equipped with CAD4TB, to Save the International. The NGO enabled active TB screening in areas where healthcare access is limited.
Making a difference
Research paper
In late 2019, a study was published on using CAD solutions, including CAD4TB. The study showed that CAD4TB met the target product profile (accuracy) target for a community-based triage test and noted that implementers considering using artificial intelligence solutions for the detection of TB-related abnormalities (like CAD4TB) should take into consideration other factors apart from the AI algorithm like service, ease-of-use, maintenance and price. It also concluded that artificial intelligence solutions like CAD4TB could potentially increase capacity and aid TB diagnosis, especially in settings with a shortage of trained human readers.
Press coverage
In April 2025, The Rising Nepal reported the first use of AI-powered TB screening in Baitadi district, identifying nine suspected cases across rural municipalities and a district prison. Mobile health teams equipped with AI tools are reaching remote areas for faster detection and treatment. “This AI technology scans chest X-rays to identify potential TB cases,” said Bipin Lekhak from the Baitadi Health Office, marking a major step toward Nepal’s TB elimination goals.
