AI can help detect fatal diseases at early stage

The Department of Telemedicine, PGI, is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to improve chances of early detection of cancer.

As one of the Centres of Excellence for AI in healthcare, the PGI has collaborated with the Health Ministry to integrate AI tools in telemedicine. This technology will enable the detection of diseases like oral cancer, liver cancer and diabetic retinopathy at an early stage.

Last year, three major institutions of the country were made Centres of Excellence for the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the medical field. These are the PGI, Chandigarh; AIIMS, Delhi; and AIIMS, Rishikesh. AI algorithms rely on data to produce accurate results. The AI tools will be trained on the robust data of the PGI, enabling better diagnosis and treatment. The technology will be particularly useful in small hospitals with limited facilities, where patients can receive timely treatment and referrals.

The Health Ministry is supporting the PGI’s proposal to use AI in healthcare, recognising its potential to benefit the general public. It’s beneficial for smaller hospitals with limited resources. Large hospitals with huge patient load but limited manpower can equally harness this AI technology to a great benefit.

Early detection of cancer is crucial for effective treatment. However, symptoms are often negligible in the initial stages, making it difficult to diagnose. This is particularly challenging in rural areas with limited access to specialists and advanced diagnostic facilities. Patients often receive treatment at local hospitals, only to be referred to major facilities such as the PGI when the disease has progressed.