Kirinyaga County has adopted artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB), a move expected to significantly improve early detection and treatment. The AI-powered digital X-ray system is designed to streamline the screening process, ensuring faster and more accurate diagnosis.
The introduction of this advanced equipment marks a major milestone in the fight against TB, which remains a critical public health concern. The system utilizes cutting-edge automated technology and pre-installed Computer-Aided Detection (CAD) software to improve the interpretation of X-ray images. By providing precise analysis, the AI-enabled system speeds up treatment and reduces the risk of further transmission.
During an event held in Kutus town, a county health official emphasized that the new technology would play a key role in controlling TB infections. The official highlighted the importance of accessibility, noting that the portable nature of the AI-enabled X-ray allows it to be deployed in TB hotspots and remote areas, bringing diagnostic services closer to the people.
The county has already recorded improvements in TB detection, with cases rising from 1,516 in 2023 to 1,597 in 2024 due to enhanced screening services. With the adoption of AI technology, further improvements are anticipated. Currently, 94 health facilities in the county provide diagnostic services for TB, while 25 offer treatment.
The World Health Organization recommends chest X-rays as a vital screening tool for TB. The newly introduced AI-powered system will aid in identifying individuals who require further testing, contributing to the prevention of TB transmission. Since nearly half of TB cases are asymptomatic, early detection is crucial in curbing the spread of the disease. Once diagnosed, TB is treatable and curable with proper medical intervention.
Health officials have assured that the county’s facilities are equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, including the AI-enabled digital X-ray and laboratory-based GeneXpert testing. These technologies play a significant role in detecting TB early and screening for drug-resistant strains.
The county administration remains committed to eradicating TB, acknowledging that the disease remains a leading cause of death among people living with HIV. However, TB is preventable and curable, and efforts will continue to educate both healthcare workers and the public on the importance of early detection and proper treatment.
The new X-ray unit has been introduced through collaboration with healthcare partners, with a strong emphasis on its impact in diagnosing TB and HIV. Health experts have noted that HIV patients are more vulnerable to TB, making accurate and early detection even more crucial for their well-being.
One of the major challenges in TB management has been misdiagnosis and delayed detection. The adoption of AI in diagnosis is expected to address these issues, improving survival rates and ensuring better health outcomes, particularly for those living with HIV.
The event also featured testimonials from individuals who have successfully recovered from TB, sharing their experiences to inspire and encourage those currently undergoing treatment. A former patient and TB awareness champion highlighted the importance of adhering to treatment regimens, emphasizing that TB is treatable if patients complete their prescribed medication.
Another speaker, a lab technician and former TB patient, urged residents to take persistent coughs seriously, reinforcing the message that early diagnosis and treatment can save lives. TB is a highly contagious disease that primarily affects the lungs, spreading through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
With the integration of AI in TB diagnosis, Kirinyaga County is taking a significant step toward reducing infections and improving public health outcomes. The use of innovative technology in healthcare continues to play a crucial role in transforming disease management and ensuring better access to life-saving treatments.
