GMC Bhopal develops AI-based oral cancer screening device
In a major breakthrough aimed at strengthening early detection of oral cancer, Gandhi Medical College (GMC), Bhopal, has developed an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based oral cancer screening device along with a mobile application capable of identifying the disease at an early stage. The screening device has also received a design patent from the Government of India, marking a significant milestone in the use of indigenous technology for public healthcare.
Developed by the Department of Dental Surgery, the innovation combines an AI-enabled screening device with the ‘Mukh Aarogya App’, which analyses photographs of the oral cavity to detect suspicious lesions and early signs of oral cancer within minutes. The technology is expected to improve community-level screening and facilitate timely diagnosis, particularly in rural and underserved areas where access to specialists is limited.
The application has been designed to support frontline healthcare workers, including Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), Community Health Officers (CHOs) and staff posted at Primary Health Centres. Using a smartphone, healthcare workers can capture images of a patient’s oral cavity, which are then analysed by the AI system. Individuals identified with suspected cancer can be promptly referred to specialist hospitals for further investigation and treatment, helping reduce delays that often result in advanced-stage diagnosis.
Professor and Head of the Department of Dental Surgery Anuj Bhargav said early detection remains the most effective strategy for reducing mortality from oral cancer. Detecting the disease at an initial stage not only improves treatment outcomes but also reduces the complexity and cost of treatment while significantly increasing the chances of complete recovery. He said the project has been developed to empower frontline healthcare workers with AI-driven diagnostic support and establish an efficient referral mechanism for suspected patients.
India reports nearly 1.5 lakh new cases of oral cancer every year, making it one of the country’s most serious public health concerns. Madhya Pradesh continues to record a high burden of the disease, with the incidence among men estimated at around 25 cases per lakh population. Bhopal is also considered one of the cities with a relatively high prevalence of oral cancer.
The research and development project was carried out under the guidance of Dean Kavita Ain Singh, with significant contributions from Richa Sharma and Animesh Barodiya of the Department of Dental Surgery.