Digital Health Intervention in Snakebite Management: Scoping Review.

Background

Snakebite envenoming is a neglected tropical disease that causes significant morbidity and mortality, with an estimated 81,410-137,880 deaths annually, primarily in rural, low-resource settings. Digital health interventions, particularly mobile apps (mobile-based health apps), offer innovative solutions to improve snakebite management through real-time guidance, antivenom stock tracking, and telemedicine.

Objective

This scoping review aims to (1) systematically map existing digital mobile-based health interventions for snakebite management and (2) evaluate their key functionalities, accessibility, and geographical distribution.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search (January 2024) across PubMed, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Google Search, and the Google Play Store. The results were screened using the following criteria: mobile-based health apps providing structured guidance for snakebite management (first aid, treatment protocols, antivenom mapping) were included while studies not in the English language and studies on apps lacking clinical guidance were excluded. Data extraction focused on app features (snake identification, first aid protocols), accessibility (operating system compatibility, cost), multilingual support, and user feedback. Regional app availability was verified via VPN for country-specific stores (eg, India, Nigeria). Narrative synthesis was used to categorize findings by functionality, regional distribution, and implementation challenges. The results were presented using a PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) flowchart to illustrate the screening process, complemented by summary tables for a clear and detailed overview of the findings.

Results

The search resulted in a total of 237 records, of which 227 underwent primary screening after removing duplicates. After full-text review, 135 reports were excluded, resulting in the inclusion of a total of 16 apps. All 16 apps provided first aid protocols, with most including snake identification tools (n=14, 88%) such as artificial intelligence-driven photo recognition. Additionally, over half mapped antivenom stocks (n=9, 56%) and a majority integrated emergency contacts (n=11, 69%). A total of 15 apps (94%) were free to access, and 10 (62%) supported Android. Most of the apps were available in India (n=11, 69%), while South Africa had very few, despite the burden, highlighting a clear geographical disparity. Urban users praised real-time guidance (85% positive reviews), but rural usability was hindered due to internet dependency (40% of rural users) and language barriers (65% misinterpretation was noted in regions where English was not the primary language).

Conclusions

Digital health apps have demonstrated the potential to reduce snakebite mortality through education and emergency support. However, scalability can only be achieved by taking into consideration several factors. First, infrastructural adaptations including offline functionality and low-data interfaces are needed. Second, they must have equity-driven designs, allowing regional customization (eg, sub-Saharan African snake species) and hyperlocal language integration. Third, there must be policy actions taken including standardized development guidelines, subsidized smartphone access, and digital literacy programs. These steps are critical to achieving the World Health Organization's 2030 targets and ensuring equitable global impact.