AI-Based Mammography Technology Moves Closer to Wider Use in India
AIIMS-developed technology has been transferred to an Indian medical technology company, with the potential to assist radiologists in identifying suspicious breast cancer findings.
New Delhi, Sep 20: An artificial intelligence-based mammography technology developed at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, has moved closer to wider clinical use in India following its transfer to BPL Technologies.
The technology is designed to assist in interpreting mammograms and help radiologists identify suspicious findings that may require further examination. The development could support efforts to improve the early detection of breast cancer, particularly in settings where access to specialised breast-imaging expertise is limited.
The move comes amid concerns over delayed diagnosis of breast cancer in India. According to an India Today report, more than 60 per cent of breast cancer cases in the country are estimated to be diagnosed at advanced stages III or IV.
AI-based tools could provide additional support to healthcare professionals by analysing mammography images and highlighting areas that may need closer assessment. However, the technology will require appropriate validation, regulatory clearances and clinical evidence before broader deployment.
Research from other countries has also indicated potential benefits from AI-assisted mammography. A large Swedish trial involving more than 105,000 women found that AI-supported screening detected more cancers than standard screening while also reducing the workload involved in reading mammograms.
The AIIMS development could therefore contribute to the growing use of technology in India’s cancer-care system. Wider adoption would depend on clinical validation, regulatory approval and integration with existing hospital and diagnostic workflows.
