AI revolutionises pregnancy scans in Africa — Guardian reports

Mothers-to-be are familiar with the first glimpse of their baby via ultrasound scans, but this technology has been a luxury in many parts of the world.

Now, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is bringing this essential medical checkup to women most in need, according to the Guardian news.

A pilot project in Uganda uses AI software to power ultrasound imaging, allowing for the scanning of unborn babies and encouraging early attendance to health services, which helps reduce stillbirths and complications.

In low and middle-income countries, trained specialists and equipment are scarce, often located in urban hospitals far from rural homes.

Early pregnancy checkups can be life-saving, says Daniel Lukakamwa, an obstetrician and gynecologist at Kawempe National Referral Hospital in Kampala, Uganda, where the AI software is being developed.

“It has made pregnant mothers very interested in coming for ultrasound scans. People are very much willing to join the study without any apprehension. Apparently, we are getting overwhelmed,” Lukakamwa said.

The AI-based ScanNav FetalCheck software by Intelligent Ultrasound allows accurate dating of pregnancies without the need for specialist sonographers. Trained on millions of images, the software “recognizes” a pregnancy’s gestation.

This technology allows scans to be performed by midwives or nurses using a simple ultrasound probe, and it can be paired with portable devices for home care.

The trial at Kawempe hospital aims to predict pregnancies at greatest risk of stillbirth but is already helping engage women earlier.

“Mothers who have delivered have made us referrals to come for the study. They talk to them, and more mothers are coming to join the research programme. They really like it; they trust our results,” said radiographer Joness Biira.

The main challenge facing staff is “maybe power failures,” she noted.

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