Mumbai University is embarking on a groundbreaking collaboration with several leading city hospitals to develop artificial intelligence (AI) models focused on early disease detection, particularly in women. This initiative, aimed at reducing the burden of disease and increasing the percentage of screenings, has already formed alliances with renowned institutions such as Tata Memorial Hospital and Nanavati.
The project represents a significant step forward in merging academic research with real-world medical applications. The goal of this initiative is to leverage AI technology to improve healthcare outcomes by creating predictive models that can assist in the early diagnosis and management of diseases commonly affecting women. The collaboration will enable Mumbai University to access vital patient case studies from hospitals, which will be analysed by AI systems to identify patterns and risk factors related to various health conditions.
For instance, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition that affects a large number of women, is often triggered by factors such as stress, lifestyle, and diet. Using AI models, researchers aim to identify the intricate interplay of these factors and offer predictive tools for early detection. This approach can help doctors not only diagnose PCOS earlier but also suggest lifestyle changes and preventive measures tailored to each patient’s unique profile. Mumbai University’s research and development team, under the guidance of domain experts from partnering hospitals, is also exploring ways to apply AI for the early detection of life-threatening conditions such as breast cancer, cervical cancer, and tuberculosis.
The initiative has received initial funding through the PM-USHA scheme, but the university is actively seeking additional support from both government agencies and the private sector to expand its scope. The potential impact of these AI models could extend beyond just women’s health. Mumbai University is considering future studies to analyse disease outbreaks region-wise, ensuring that healthcare infrastructure is well-prepared to meet the demands of a population affected by various diseases. This could include ensuring the timely supply of medicines and equipment based on predictive analysis. The university’s partnership network is expected to grow, with future collaborations planned with more hospitals, research institutions, and technical partners. Recently, Mumbai University signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Purdue University and Saint Louis University to strengthen this research. Additionally, it plans to collaborate with IIT-Bombay, which is also working on similar AI-driven healthcare projects.
