Context Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are responsible for more than 71% of all deaths worldwide and more than 85% of these deaths are premature and in low- and middle-income countries. Diabetes is one of four key NCDs, the others being cardiovascular disease (CVD) chronic respiratory illness and cancer. Those with diabetes are at high risk for CVD and are two to four times more likely to die from CVD than those without. 1 in 10 people with diabetes were not aware about CVD and its risk factors; greater than 9 in 10 had one or more risk factors for CVD; and 1 in 4 thought their risk for CVD was low or none. These results of a study conducted by the International Diabetes Federation in 2017/2018 reported that in South East Asia more than half those studied reported that they were at no or low risk of CVD. Furthermore, almost 1 in 5 could not recall having discussed risk for CVD with their clinician. Thailand’s National Health Examination Survey III showed that approximately half of the people with the coexistence of hypertension and diabetes were unaware of either one condition and 85% of them were unaware of having both conditions. Researchers conclude that efforts to increase detection, treatment, and control of those affected are critical. A multisectoral approach involving key stakeholders and leveraging technology with credible information can be used to address the challenge.

Intervention We leveraged artificial intelligence to address two key issues; identify persona of diabetes patients who are not aware of their risk for CVD and provide targeted information to raise awareness and improve adherence. The Medical Lead for NCDs, the Regional Medical Lead for ASEAN and the Regional Business Technology (BT) Lead led the design and execution of this strategic project in Thailand. Our teams included country medical and regional portfolio and BT leads. A defined project management plan with milestone reviews helped execute this project on time.