Using mobile health tools to improve tuberculosis contact tracing in Colombia
Official title: Mobile Health and Oral Testing to Optimize Tuberculosis Contact Tracing in Colombia
Funded at Yale University · NIH-10774327 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working to make it easier to find and test people for tuberculosis (TB) in Colombia by using mobile technology and new testing methods, like checking saliva instead of just cough samples, so that more people can get the care they need, even if they don’t have typical symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | February 2, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $166,091 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI174129-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10774327 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals in Colombia who have been in close contact with TB patients or are at risk of TB infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not in Colombia or those who do not have any risk factors for tuberculosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing tuberculosis (TB) contact tracing in Colombia by utilizing mobile health technologies and innovative testing methods. It aims to develop better screening tools that can detect TB in individuals who may not show typical symptoms, such as coughing. The project will also explore the use of non-sputum samples, like saliva and oral swabs, to make testing easier and more accessible. By integrating digital health solutions, including chat applications for communication, the research seeks to improve patient engagement and streamline the process of linking individuals to necessary care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective identification and treatment of tuberculosis, ultimately reducing its spread and improving public health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using mobile health technologies and innovative testing methods for infectious diseases, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davis, John Lucian — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Davis, John Lucian
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.