Govt Deploys AI Tools for TB Screening in 100-Day Drive, Informs MoS Patel

This tool has been implemented in eight states and Union Territories under the NTEP to analyze X-rays of individuals suspected of having TB.

AI-driven handheld X-rays have been utilized across various states to screen vulnerable persons for tuberculosis (TB) during the 100-day intensified 'TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan,' as informed by the Minister of State for Health in the Rajya Sabha on Friday.

Minister Anupriya Patel, in a written reply, stated that the government is using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools validated and recommended by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for analyzing chest X-rays and interpreting Line Probe Assay (LPA) results.

She noted that the DeepCXR tool is mainly employed for automated chest X-ray reading, while an AI-based system automates the reading, recording, and entry of LPA results.

She also mentioned that the NTEP has incorporated the DeepCXR tool, which is available free of charge to the government for automated chest X-ray analysis.

This tool has been implemented in eight states and Union Territories under the NTEP to analyze X-rays of individuals suspected of having TB.

The minister also highlighted that the 100-day intensified TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, launched on December 7, 2024, covers 347 priority districts nationwide.

She added that handheld X-rays and AI tools were deployed to screen presumptive TB cases in vulnerable populations. Additionally, the government has approved the procurement of central supplies to ensure availability in high-burden areas.

These efforts align with the ongoing TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, wherein over 13.46 lakh Nikshay Shivirs (community TB screening and awareness camps) have been organized, increasing TB treatment coverage from 59% to 85%. The initiative screened 12.97 crore people, detecting 7.19 lakh new TB cases and 2.85 lakh asymptomatic cases that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. In 100 days, 1,05,181 new Nikshay Mitras were registered, distributing 3,06,368 food baskets to TB patients and their families.

Recently, Union Health and Family Welfare Minister JP Nadda announced that the government is integrating AI into healthcare and expanding teleconsultation services to address mental health concerns.

He also emphasized the government's commitment to modernizing healthcare and achieving a TB-free India before the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) deadline of 2030.

In a similar development, Qure.ai introduced qXR, an AI-powered chest X-ray interpretation tool. According to a recent report, the tool has significantly enhanced tuberculosis (TB) detection while reducing costs. The solution is already deployed in over 2,600 sites across 67 countries, with a strong presence in India's TB programs.

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