2022-06-14 15:59:48
AI to fight breast cancer by making screening more efficient and accessible
Idea
Vara is a startup from Berlin fighting breast cancer with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
They use a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model. Vara installs their software on existing radio screening machines. In that way, hospitals and healthcare centers do not need to invest in new equipment.
Efficiency
The AI works in two ways.
First, it filters out normal cancer-free mammograms (breast screenings). The radiologist can spend more time focusing on suspicious screenings with potential cancer signs. Second, Vara's tech alerts the radiologist of a potential missed cancer case.
In clinical trials in Germany, Vara found 40% of all cancers that were missed by radiologists.
Accessibility
Let's get an idea of the cost savings the company provides.
In Mexico, Vara's AI software screening services are offered for $15. The same screening made in private clinic without Vara costs between $50 and $150. Quite a notable difference, right?
Impact
Why are those efficiency and cost savings significant?
In the U.S., there are around 260,000 diagnosed breast cancer cases per year. 42,000 die from the same.
The common preventative care for breast cancer is an annual mammogram. And it is usually covered by standard health insurance. Yet, if they find any abnormalities, extra screening is required, and those costs are not covered.
In 2020, 28 million U.S. citizens didn’t have health insurance at any point during the year. And the ones who did, still may not have coverage for everything they need.
That's where Vara's AI may step in by providing quality options at a lower cost.
#AI #startups #software
915 viewsDmitrii Blium, 12:59
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