Indian Institute of Technology Mandi researchers have contributed in developing an Artificial Intelligence-powered point-of-care device to screen for cervical cancer by analysing microscopy images with high accuracy. This project has been taken up in collaboration with Aindra Systems Pvt Ltd, Bengaluru.
The research was undertaken by a team led by Dr Anil Sao and Dr Arnav Bhavsar, Associate Professors, School of Computing and Electrical Engineering, IIT Mandi with their research scholars Srishti Gautam and Krati Gupta. The team, along with the industry collaborators, has developed AI-based algorithms that enables the device to undertake automatic screening for cervical cancer.
Cervical Cancer is among deadliest forms of cancer. Early detection and treatment are vital for those diagnosed with cervical cancer.
The gold standard in screening for cervical cancer is the ‘Pap smear test,’ in which, cells extracted from the cervix are examined by specialists using a microscope. While the Pap smear test has undoubtedly helped in early detection of cervical cancer, it involves subjective analysis and is associated with risks of false diagnoses; various research studies have shown the accuracy of the Pap smear test to range between 60 per cent and 85 per cent.
Speaking about the practical advantages of the device, Dr Arnav Bhavsar said, “The difference between a conventional system and Aindra’s point-of-care system is that, the latter is portable and can be taken to the potential patients. In the conventional system, the people have to visit the pathology laboratory to get themselves screened.”