Bangalore’s AI Innovation Delivers Results in Just Two Minutes

In a groundbreaking development poised to transform medical diagnostics, two innovators from Bangalore have introduced an AI-powered tool capable of detecting cancer in a mere two minutes. Dr. Narayana Subramaniam, a head and neck oncologist, and Dr. Hardik Pandya, an engineer-scientist at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), have collaborated to create this revolutionary device, aiming to make cancer screening faster, more affordable, and accessible, especially in underserved regions.

The Urgent Need for Rapid Cancer Detection

Early cancer detection is crucial for effective treatment and improved survival rates. However, traditional screening methods are often time-consuming and expensive, limiting timely diagnosis for many patients. Recognizing these challenges, Dr. Subramaniam and Dr. Pandya sought to develop a solution that could overcome these barriers and provide rapid, accurate results.

The Two-Minute Diagnostic Tool: How It Works

At the core of this innovation is a low-cost, 3D-printed device that eliminates the need for expensive slide scanners. The AI-driven system focuses on identifying abnormal cells, streamlining the diagnostic process by analyzing only pertinent areas. Once analyzed, the results are digitized and transmitted to pathologists for remote evaluation, significantly reducing both time and cost. Unlike traditional machines that require substantial investments ranging from ₹32 lakh to ₹1 crore, this portable alternative offers a cost-effective solution, potentially making advanced cancer screening as simple as sending a photo over a 3G or 4G network.

Bridging the Gap in Cancer Screening

The innovators identified significant gaps in current cancer detection methods, particularly in follow-up care after initial screenings. Annual screening camps often fail to track patients for follow-ups, leaving many undiagnosed. “The problem isn’t just in testing; it’s in making sure people actually receive their results in time to act,” says Dr. Subramaniam. The AI-powered tool aims to bridge this gap, ensuring that early detection becomes a fundamental right accessible to all, potentially saving millions of lives.

Support and Future Plans

The U.S. National Institutes of Health has recognized the potential of this innovation, awarding the project a $2.4 million grant. Looking ahead, the team plans to refine the device’s accuracy from 85% to 90% through trials involving 600 patients, with the goal of matching the reliability of traditional biopsies. Their five-year roadmap includes obtaining regulatory approvals and forming partnerships with government and private agencies to disseminate this life-saving technology nationwide. “The dream is to make this tool available for everyone, everywhere,” says Dr. Subramaniam. With the power of AI, that dream is moving closer to reality, offering hope for a future where timely detection can change countless lives.

Implications for Global Healthcare

This breakthrough has significant implications not only for India but for global healthcare. By providing a rapid, affordable, and accurate diagnostic tool, it addresses critical challenges in cancer detection, particularly in low-resource settings. The portability and cost-effectiveness of the device make it a viable solution for widespread implementation, potentially transforming cancer care worldwide.