Submission ID 116363
| Issue/Objective | Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with 94% of cases occurring in these settings due to inadequate screening access, provider shortages, and diagnostic variability. In Rwanda, Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) remains the primary screening method but is highly subjective, leading to inconsistent diagnoses and delays in treatment. Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) through mobile technology could enhance diagnostic consistency, optimize clinical workflows, and improve access to early intervention, particularly in resource-constrained settings. Objective To pilot-test and evaluate an AI-powered mobile application for VIA-based cervical cancer screening, assessing its feasibility, diagnostic performance, and potential integration into Rwanda's healthcare system. |
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| Methodology/Approach | This mixed-methods study will be conducted at Kicukiro Health Center, using a two-stage approach. The first stage will involve fieldwork to assess the AI-powered tool's diagnostic performance by collecting cervical images and comparing AI-generated classifications with expert evaluations. This quantitative phase will measure diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and inter-observer agreement, providing objective insights into the tool's clinical reliability. The second stage will consist of stakeholder workshops and in-depth interviews with healthcare providers, policymakers, and AI ethics experts to explore perceptions of AI adoption, identify potential barriers and facilitators, and discuss ethical and regulatory considerations for scaling the tool within Rwanda's healthcare system. |
| Results | Data collection and analysis are ongoing, with final results expected before October 2025. The study will generate both quantitative and qualitative insights. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | By evaluating this AI-driven innovation in real-world settings, the study will generate critical insights into its feasibility, scalability, and potential role in strengthening cervical cancer screening programs across sub-Saharan Africa. The findings will contribute to global discussions on leveraging AI and mobile health technologies to bridge the digital divide, ensure equitable access, and advance frugal innovations for resource-limited settings. |
| Presenters and affiliations | Maya Fakhfakh International Development Research Center Chaitali Sinha International Development Research Center |
