Written by : Trishti Pariwal
June 22, 2023
The program, developed by Oncoshot India, uses AI to match patients with trials based on their individual medical history and tumor characteristics. While in India "clinical trials" are frequently viewed with skepticism, patient support groups in the West assist terminally ill cancer patients in accessing clinical trials. Over 25,000 people have now been matched with clinical trials through the programme, which is still in its early phases.
"Clinical trials are the only way to bring treatment to clinics, but in India we imitate and implement the western findings," said Dr Kumar Prabhash (Tata Memorial Hospital Professor).
In the upcoming months, Oncoshot India intends to broaden the program's participation to more hospitals and patients. An interesting breakthrough is the application of AI to clinical trial matching for cancer patients. The creation of new cancer treatments depends on clinical trials, but finding and taking part in them can be challenging for patients. By quickly and effectively connecting patients with studies that are suitable for their particular needs, AI can assist in overcoming these difficulties.
Oncoshot India's programme not only matches patients with clinical trials but also informs them about the studies, including the advantages and disadvantages of participating. Patients can use this information to decide for themselves whether to take part in a clinical trial or not.
An important milestone in the fight against cancer in India has been made with the launch of the Oncoshot India programme. The programme could increase the number of people who have access to cutting-edge cancer treatments and increase their chances of surviving.