The AI-powered mobile application Shwaasa, developed by a Karnataka start-up, aims to close the diagnostic gaps in India’s primary healthcare system. Validated by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), this tool enhances early screening for chronic lung diseases like COPD and asthma. Using a smartphone’s microphone, Shwaasa analyzes recorded cough sounds, providing results in about eight minutes—without the need for specialized equipment. In a study with 460 participants, the app demonstrated approximately 90% accuracy in detecting lung conditions, with accuracy for specific diseases like COPD and asthma ranging from 82% to 87%. As COPD is a leading cause of morbidity in India, Shwaasa is recommended for primary healthcare facilities lacking spirometry equipment. Additionally, researchers are exploring the app’s potential for tuberculosis detection, highlighting its promise in improving respiratory disease screening in resource-limited settings and supporting India’s healthcare infrastructure.
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