Thane Screens Over 14,000 People for Tuberculosis Using AI-Based Handheld X-Ray Machines

Thane:

In a major push towards tuberculosis eradication, the Thane district administration has screened more than 14,000 people using artificial intelligence-enabled handheld X-ray machines, significantly strengthening early detection efforts in both urban and remote areas.

According to officials, the initiative forms part of an intensive TB control campaign led by the Thane Zilla Parishad (ZP), with a strong focus on reaching high-risk and underserved populations. Mobile screening units equipped with AI-powered X-ray devices were deployed across villages and densely populated pockets of the district, enabling faster diagnosis and immediate medical intervention.

Mobile AI Units Transform TB Detection

As per an official release issued by the Thane ZP, mobile AI-based X-ray units were sent to every village in the district during the campaign. Through this approach, health authorities were able to identify 2,493 suspected tuberculosis cases over the last year alone.

The use of handheld X-ray machines, supported by artificial intelligence algorithms, allowed medical teams to detect lung abnormalities indicative of TB within minutes. This significantly reduced the dependence on conventional, time-consuming diagnostic methods and ensured early referral for confirmatory testing and treatment.

“The integration of AI-based handheld X-ray machines alongside traditional sputum testing is proving to be a game-changer in Thane,” the release stated. “It enables us to reach high-risk populations in remote areas and bring patients under immediate care.”

Focused Screening Yields Higher Detection

The screening drive recorded particularly high activity in areas such as Badlapur, Bhiwandi, Kalyan, Murbad, and Shahapur. Among these, Bhiwandi and Murbad reported the highest detection rates, which officials attributed to focused and intensified screening efforts in these regions.

Health officials explained that targeted screening in vulnerable clusters—such as industrial zones, densely populated settlements, and tribal or remote villages—helped uncover cases that may otherwise have gone undiagnosed.

By proactively taking diagnostic facilities to people’s doorsteps, the administration was able to overcome barriers such as travel distance, cost, and social stigma, which often delay TB diagnosis.

Strengthening Care for Drug-Resistant TB

In addition to early detection, the district health department has been providing advanced diagnostic tests and specialised treatment for patients diagnosed with drug-resistant tuberculosis. Officials said that integrating AI screening with laboratory confirmation has improved case management and reduced delays in initiating appropriate therapy.

Patients identified as suspected cases through AI X-ray screening are promptly referred for sputum tests, molecular diagnostics, and further evaluation under national TB elimination guidelines.

Step Towards TB Eradication

Tuberculosis remains a significant public health challenge in India, particularly in densely populated and economically vulnerable regions. Officials in Thane believe that technology-driven interventions like AI-based X-ray screening can play a crucial role in achieving TB elimination targets.

By combining innovation with grassroots-level outreach, the Thane district administration aims to not only increase detection rates but also ensure timely treatment, reduce transmission, and improve long-term health outcomes.

Health authorities have indicated that the AI-based screening model may be expanded further, strengthening Maharashtra’s broader fight against tuberculosis and reinforcing India’s commitment to eliminating the disease in the coming years.