The Karnataka government has partnered with AstraZeneca Pharma India Ltd to expedite lung cancer screening. The partnership aims to improve healthcare access for 140,000 patients across 19 district hospitals. The initiative uses AI technology, specifically Qure.ai's chest X-ray system, which can identify up to 29 lung diseases in a single X-ray, enhancing early detection of potentially life-threatening conditions.

“Technology is a game-changer. Detecting lung nodules early is crucial in the fight against cancer, and we are determined to bring this technology to every district hospital in Karnataka. It’s a cost-effective solution that will alleviate the financial and emotional burdens on patients,” said Dinesh Gundu Rao, Minister of the Health & Family Welfare Department, Government of Karanataka.

Karnataka is experiencing a 1% annual increase in cancer cases, with the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) predicting a 90,000 increase by 2025. The most concerning issue is lung cancer, particularly in Bengaluru, where it ranks as one of the most common cancers in both genders.

AstraZeneca has formed the 'Lung Ambition Alliance' to eradicate lung cancer, a leading cause of mortality. Dr. Sanjeev Panchal, AstraZeneca's Managing Director and Country President, praised the Karnataka Government for their partnership and highlighted the potential for early cancer detection through AI-based chest X-ray and low-dose CT scanning at the community level.

The data collected will provide critical support for various vital healthcare programs and aid in addressing national healthcare challenges, notably pulmonary tuberculosis. Moreover, it will play a pivotal role in shaping strategies to combat the disease burden in Karnataka.

Over the next 12 months, this technology will be implemented in district hospitals throughout the state, including facilities in Bagalkote, Vijayapura, Dharwad, Gadag, Chikkaballapur, Chikkamagaluru, Chitradurga, Kalburgi, Ramanagaram, Tumkuru, Karwar, Udupi, Yadgiri, Haveri, Madikeri, Kolar, Koppal, Chigateri Hospital, Davanagere, Wenlock Hospital in Mangalore, and K C General Hospital in Bengaluru.