Accelerating TB Detection in Vulnerable Areas
To eliminate Tuberculosis (TB) in Siddharth Nagar and other districts of Uttar Pradesh, AI-enabled handheld X-ray machine are playing a crucial role in screening vulnerable populations. These machines are deployed at camps and Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, ensuring faster and more accessible TB detection.
Efficient Screening with Mobile X-Ray Technology
Dr. Rajat Kumar Chaurasia highlighted the district’s strategic use of its only AI-enabled handheld X-ray machine. Authorities have implemented a roster system to move the machine across different locations, directing technicians to screen at least 150 people daily, with numbers sometimes exceeding 250. The machine detects TB suspicion with 90% accuracy in just five seconds.
“The state government provided this machine to our district as a reward for screening the highest number of people and identifying the most vulnerable populations in Uttar Pradesh,” Dr. Chaurasia explained. Unlike manual X-ray centers that require patients to travel, the handheld machine reaches people directly.
Targeting High-Risk Populations
As reported by Aninews, this campaign focuses on vulnerable groups at higher risk of TB. These include individuals over 60, malnourished individuals, alcoholics, and smokers. It also targets those living close to TB patients and residents of slums or jails. So far, healthcare authorities have screened 94% of the identified vulnerable population in UP.
Expanding Access to AI-Enabled Screening
Dr. Shailendra Bhatnagar noted that Uttar Pradesh currently has 14 AI-enabled handheld X-ray machines. Industrialists and the Government of India have shown interest in providing more machines. This will further strengthen efforts to eliminate TB and improve healthcare accessibility.