Chennai to Deploy AI-Powered X-Ray Screening for Early TB Detection

The new AI-technology shall be designed to analyze chest X-ray images taken at selected facilities and generate automated reports to assist doctors in identifying suspected TB cases

The Greater Chennai Corporation has announced plans to deploy AI-based chest X-ray screening across its urban primary health centers (UPHCs) to improve early detection of tuberculosis (TB) and other respiratory conditions across the state.

The initiative is being implemented by the Corporation as part of its effort to strengthen public health surveillance and accelerate the diagnosis of infectious diseases.

As per reports, the civil administration body has already allocated INR One crore for procuring the AI software and associated equipment required for the deployment.

The AI-enabled screening will be introduced in 15 UPHCs located across the city’s 15 administrative zones, along with seven mobile TB screening units used for community outreach.

The new AI-technology shall be designed to analyze chest X-ray images taken at selected facilities and generate automated reports to assist doctors in identifying suspected TB cases.

The technology is expected to reduce the time required for manual screening by radiologists or trained medical practitioners.

Further, the automated system will also help to prioritise patients with suspected abnormalities during consultations, allowing for quicker follow-up testing and treatment initiation.

Officials noted that the integration with routine diagnostics is expected to enhance the corporation's public health capacity, particularly through outreach screening programmes conducted by mobile units.

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