Cutting Edge Technologies Revolutionize TB Detection in Africa

CATHERINE MUROMBEDZI
HEALTH CORRESPONDENT

At the recent Union World Conference on Lung Health in Bali, Indonesia, tuberculosis (TB) experts revealed groundbreaking research. Artificial intelligence (AI) and computer-aided detection (CAD) are transforming TB screening in African communities.

A Revolution in TB Detection

“We’re on the cusp of a revolution in TB detection. Innovative technologies like AI and CAD have the potential to change the landscape for detection of TB, allowing people with the disease to access treatment more quickly and helping to break the chain of transmission,” said Dr. Cassandra Kelly-Cirino, Executive Director of the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease.

Ethiopia’s AI-Powered Success

In Ethiopia, researchers from REACH Ethiopia presented astonishing results from their AI-powered TB screening project.

“Our study showed that AI-assisted X-ray screening exhibited notable sensitivity, surpassing symptom-based screening and significantly contributing to case detection rates,” said the research team.

Key Findings

● 12 000 people screened using AI-powered chest X-ray
● 8.5% showed TB-suggestive symptoms
● TB incidence rate: 927 per 100 000 population (nearly 7 times higher than national estimation)

Nigeria’s AI-Aided Breakthrough

In Nigeria, experts from KNCV presented research on AI-aided screening of non-symptomatic groups.
“AI is playing a significant role in TB programming by helping to detect subtle, subclinical lung lesions earlier — which likely would have otherwise remained undiagnosed,” said the research team.

Kenya’s CAD-Equipped Solution

In Kenya, researchers demonstrated how eight digital chest X-ray tools equipped with CAD software provided a cost-effective strategy for early active TB case identification.
“Our findings highlight the transformative potential of using AI-enabled digital chest X-ray tools in community-based TB screening programmes,” said lead researcher Rhoda Karisa.

Scaling Up Innovation

Dr. Kelly-Cirino emphasized the importance of widespread implementation.
“Innovation in healthcare is only as valuable as the number of people it reaches. To fully realise the potential of AI and CAD in TB detection, we must go further in using them as widely as possible to help make the elimination of TB a reality.”

A Future Without TB

As the global health community continues to seek innovative solutions to eradicate TB, these groundbreaking studies offer hope for a future where TB detection is faster, more accurate, and more accessible to all.

“By leveraging this innovation, countries can enhance early detection of TB and ultimately move a step closer to the goal of eliminating TB in high-burden countries like Kenya,” Karisa concluded.

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