Indian AI Platform for Cancer Care Gains BRICS Recognition
iOncology.ai, a collaborative AI platform for cancer care, is highlighted in the BRICS Health Journal, underscoring its potential in emerging economies.
An artificial intelligence platform developed in India, iOncology.ai, has been spotlighted in the BRICS Health Journal during the recent BRICS Summit held on September 12-13. This initiative, crafted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) in Pune, is supported by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
AI-Driven Innovation in Cancer Care
The platform aims to address cancer care disparities by integrating clinical data to support early detection, risk assessment, and treatment planning. It is designed to facilitate multidisciplinary reviews and manage longitudinal patient data effectively. The review titled “Transforming cancer care in emerging economies: India’s AI innovation” was authored by Ashok Sharma and colleagues from AIIMS and C-DAC. It highlights the potential of AI in enhancing cancer screening and access to specialist care.
BRICS Summit Highlights
Dr. Ashok Sharma emphasized the importance of using locally developed technologies like iOncology.ai to bridge cancer-care gaps in the Global South. He stated that BRICS collaboration should focus on strengthening cancer prevention and early diagnosis through evidence-based, interoperable solutions tailored to the needs of emerging economies. This is critical, as BRICS countries account for over 40% of the world’s population, with significant cancer incidence and mortality rates.
Current Stage and Future Prospects
Currently in its pilot stage, iOncology.ai is undergoing clinical validation and implementation evaluation. The platform utilizes curated Indian clinical, radiological, and histopathological datasets, with plans to include genetic data and electronic health records. However, it has not yet been clinically validated, and further multicenter validation is required before it can be widely implemented in clinical settings.
The review places iOncology.ai within the broader context of India's expanding cancer-control and digital-health infrastructure, including initiatives like population screening and the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. Despite its promising potential, comprehensive peer-reviewed evidence is essential to establish its diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility.