How AI is fighting breast cancer in rural India
Breast cancer is India’s leading cancer in women, with over 1.2 million new cases reported annually. Unfortunately, most of these cases are detected late, making treatment more challenging and often resulting in poor outcomes. To combat this issue, a Bengaluru-based startup, NIRAMAI, has developed a revolutionary AI-powered technology called Thermalytix that has the potential to change the game in breast cancer detection in rural India.
NIRAMAI’s Thermalytix technology is an affordable, non-invasive, and radiation-free screening tool that uses artificial intelligence to detect breast cancer. The device is portable and easy to deploy, making it an ideal solution for remote areas where access to healthcare services is limited. With Thermalytix, women in rural India can now receive early detection and treatment, saving lives and redefining access to women’s healthcare.
The need for innovative solutions like Thermalytix is stark. Breast cancer is a major public health concern in India, with mortality rates higher than those in many developed countries. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality in women, accounting for 14.4% of all cancer deaths. The majority of these cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, making treatment more difficult and increasing the risk of mortality.
The lack of access to healthcare services is a significant factor contributing to the poor breast cancer outcomes in rural India. Many women in these areas lack access to mammography machines, which are the standard diagnostic tool for breast cancer detection. Even when available, these machines are often not maintained properly, leading to inaccurate results and delayed diagnosis.
NIRAMAI’s Thermalytix technology addresses these challenges by providing a reliable and efficient breast cancer detection solution. The device uses thermal imaging to detect temperature changes in the breast tissue, which are indicative of cancer. The thermal images are then analyzed using AI algorithms to detect abnormalities and provide a diagnostic report.
The benefits of Thermalytix are numerous. The technology is:
- Affordable: Thermalytix is a cost-effective solution compared to traditional mammography machines. This makes it an attractive option for rural areas where healthcare budgets are limited.
- Non-invasive: The device does not require any invasive procedures, making it a comfortable and stress-free experience for women.
- Radiation-free: Thermalytix does not use radiation, reducing the risk of radiation exposure and making it an ideal solution for pregnant women and young girls.
- Portable: The device is lightweight and easy to transport, making it ideal for deployment in remote areas.
- Easy to deploy: Thermalytix requires minimal training, making it easy to deploy and operate in rural areas.
The impact of NIRAMAI’s Thermalytix technology is significant. Early detection of breast cancer through Thermalytix can lead to better treatment outcomes, reduced mortality rates, and improved quality of life for women. Additionally, the technology has the potential to increase access to healthcare services for women in rural India, reducing health disparities and promoting gender equality.
NIRAMAI’s success is not limited to the development of Thermalytix technology. The startup has also established a network of healthcare professionals and community workers who provide training and support to women in rural areas. This comprehensive approach ensures that women have access to not only the technology but also the expertise and resources needed to receive timely and effective treatment.
In conclusion, NIRAMAI’s Thermalytix technology is a game-changer in the fight against breast cancer in rural India. The AI-powered device offers a reliable, efficient, and affordable solution for breast cancer detection, making it an ideal solution for remote areas where access to healthcare services is limited. With Thermalytix, women in rural India can now receive early detection and treatment, saving lives and redefining access to women’s healthcare.
Source:
https://ascendants.in/the-ascendants/niramai-ai-breast-cancer-detection-india/
