Indian AI Platform iOncology.ai Gains Recognition in BRICS Health Journal
iOncology.ai, developed by AIIMS and C-DAC, is spotlighted in the BRICS Health Journal for its innovative approach to cancer care.
An Indian artificial intelligence platform, iOncology.ai, is set to receive significant international attention as it is featured in a special issue of the BRICS Health Journal. This recognition occurred during the BRICS Summit held on September 12-13, where dignitaries celebrated the potential of AI in transforming cancer care.
iOncology.ai: A Collaborative Innovation
Developed collaboratively by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) in Pune, with support from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, iOncology.ai aims to enhance various aspects of cancer treatment. The platform is designed to integrate clinical data related to cancer and support early detection, risk stratification, treatment planning, multidisciplinary review, and longitudinal patient-data management.
The review, titled “Transforming cancer care in emerging economies: India’s AI innovation,” examines the potential of AI to improve cancer screening and early diagnosis, especially in regions with limited access to specialist care. Dr. Ashok Sharma from AIIMS New Delhi, one of the authors, emphasized the importance of such innovations in bridging cancer-care disparities across the Global South.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Although promising, iOncology.ai is still in the pilot stage of clinical validation and implementation evaluation. It is currently being assessed for its performance and potential use in clinical settings. The review notes the necessity for prospective multicentre validation to establish its diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility before it can be widely adopted.
The platform's development is part of a broader effort to integrate digital health solutions within India’s healthcare infrastructure, including initiatives like the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. iOncology.ai utilizes curated Indian datasets, with plans to incorporate genetic data and collaborate with electronic health record systems.
Addressing Global Health Disparities
BRICS countries, which account for over 40% of the world’s population, face significant cancer-related challenges, including approximately 9 million new cancer cases and 4.66 million deaths annually. The review highlights the disparities in cancer patterns and access to care across these nations.
Dr. Sharma advocates for strengthening cancer prevention, early diagnosis, and therapy through evidence-based solutions tailored to emerging economies. The ultimate goal is to empower clinicians and ensure more equitable cancer care, particularly in resource-constrained settings.