AI presents a significant opportunity in healthcare by improving access to high-quality and equitable care worldwide. In areas like radiology, where expert interpretation is crucial for patient outcomes, the shortage of radiologists can be a challenge. AI has the potential to address this gap.
A recent partnership with Apollo Radiology International in India is leveraging AI advancements in healthcare to reach communities across the country.
AI Enhancing Early Detection of High-Mortality Diseases
Tuberculosis (TB) affects over 10 million people annually, with more than 1.3 million deaths recorded globally, especially in regions like South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. Timely detection is critical as delays can lead to fatal consequences. To address this, an AI system has been developed to analyze chest X-ray scans for early signs of TB.
Additionally, lung cancer and breast cancer require specialized screening and interpretation. In India, lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. There is a lack of a national screening program for high-risk individuals. AI can assist in making screening more accessible and in identifying incidental nodules that may indicate cancer.
Moreover, breast cancer has a high mortality rate in India due to a shortage of trained radiologists for interpretation. AI technology can aid in interpreting mammograms to scale screening efforts.
Future of AI in Disease Screening
AI can significantly contribute to early disease detection. Ongoing collaborations with Apollo Radiology International aim to validate AI systems for wider impact. Efforts are underway to secure regulatory approvals to implement these AI models in clinical care settings across India.
In the coming decade, Apollo Radiology International plans to offer 3 million free AI-powered screenings for TB, lung cancer, and breast cancer, supporting hundreds of thousands of individuals in accessing timely healthcare.
Advancing Maternal and Child Health
Efforts in India extend to initiatives like Google.org supported ARMMAN’s development of mMitra. This mobile service delivers preventive care messages to new mothers, aiding in reducing maternal and child mortality. AI-powered predictions are utilized to engage health workers in following up with at-risk women.
