Solar-Powered LED Phototherapy for Neonatal Jaundice in Rural Settings: Design, Fabrication, and Implications for Neonatal Care

The study covered the design and fabrication of a solar powered light emitting diode (LED) phototherapy light for rural neonatal care. The aim of the study was to design and fabricate a solar based phototherapy unit with an interruptible power supply. The authors used both active and passive components to design the electronic circuit (PIC microcontroller, relays, 12V batteries, 100W solar panel, LEDs, transistors, IR transmitter and receiver, resistors, capacitors, jumper wires, LCD display and buzzer etc.) and metal sheets for fabrication of the casing. The design was tested and results showed that the phototherapy device was able to stay ON for about 12 hours continuously powering the phototherapy lights. The temperature monitoring and alarm system worked perfectly sounding the alarm above 38.5oC. The device was able measure bilirubin level at three categories namely normal, positive/ High and positive / Low through the Green, Red and Blue LEDs indicators and finally, for cost effectiveness the system cost ₦450,000 while other phototherapy device with bilirubin meter cost about ₦1,200,000. The study demonstrated the efficacy of the solar-powered LED phototherapy light for rural neonatal care, suggesting its implementation to enhance healthcare accessibility in underserved areas, potentially through partnerships with local healthcare providers or NGOs for widespread adoption.