In a significant step toward improving early cancer diagnosis, Gandhi Medical College (GMC), Bhopal, has developed an artificial intelligence (AI)-based oral cancer screening technology designed to identify signs of oral cancer at an early stage. The innovation includes an AI-powered screening device and a mobile application called Mukh Aarogya, both of which are intended to strengthen community-level cancer detection.

The Government of India has granted a design patent for the screening device, marking an important milestone for the institution's research and innovation efforts. Medical experts believe the technology could play a crucial role in reducing delays in diagnosis and improving treatment outcomes for patients.

AI-Based Screening for Early Detection

Developed by the Department of Dental Surgery at GMC Bhopal, the Mukh Aarogya App uses artificial intelligence to analyze photographs of the inside of a patient's mouth. The application is designed to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities that could indicate the presence of oral cancer.

After analyzing the images, the AI system provides an initial assessment of whether the patient may require further medical evaluation. If signs of possible cancer are detected, the app can facilitate prompt referral to specialist healthcare centers for detailed examination and treatment.

According to the college, the technology is the first initiative of its kind in Madhya Pradesh aimed at supporting AI-assisted oral cancer screening on a wider scale.

Designed for Rural Healthcare

One of the key objectives of the project is to improve access to cancer screening in rural and remote regions, where specialist healthcare services may not always be readily available.

The Mukh Aarogya App has been developed for use by Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), Community Health Officers (CHOs), and healthcare workers at Primary Health Centres (PHCs). Using a smartphone, frontline health workers can capture oral images during routine health visits and upload them for AI-based analysis.

Patients identified as potentially high-risk can then be referred to specialist hospitals without unnecessary delays, helping speed up diagnosis and treatment.

Oral Cancer Remains a Major Health Challenge

Oral cancer continues to be a significant public health concern in India. According to the information shared by the institution, the country records approximately 150,000 new oral cancer cases every year.

In Madhya Pradesh, the incidence among men is estimated to be around 25 cases per one lakh population, while Bhopal is considered one of the cities with a relatively higher burden of the disease.

Medical experts note that many patients seek treatment only after the disease has reached an advanced stage, reducing the chances of successful treatment. Early diagnosis is widely regarded as one of the most effective ways to improve survival rates and reduce treatment complexity.

AI Analysis Can Support Faster Diagnosis

Professor and Head of the Department of Dental Surgery, Dr. Anuj Bhargava, said the application is capable of detecting suspicious lesions within the oral cavity using AI-assisted image analysis.

He explained that once the photographs are analyzed, the system identifies whether there is a potential risk that warrants further clinical evaluation. An integrated referral mechanism has also been built into the platform to ensure patients receive timely specialist care when required.

According to Dr. Bhargava, detecting oral cancer in its early stages can make treatment more effective, less complicated, and comparatively affordable while significantly improving recovery prospects.

Building a Smarter AI Model

Dr. Bhargava said the long-term goal is not only to develop innovative technology but also to place AI tools in the hands of frontline healthcare workers across the state.

He expressed hope that the application would eventually be adopted across all districts of Madhya Pradesh. As screening data grows, the AI model is expected to become increasingly accurate, enabling better detection of suspicious cases and expanding access to preventive healthcare.

Research Backed by Institutional Support

The research was carried out under the guidance of Dean Dr. Kavita Ain Singh, whose support for innovation and medical research helped the project progress.

The development team also included Dr. Richa Sharma, Medical Officer in the Department of Dental Surgery, and Dr. Animesh Barodiya, Assistant Professor in the department. Both researchers played a key role in the conceptualization, development, implementation, and testing of the AI-powered screening device and the Mukh Aarogya App.

Medical experts believe such AI-assisted innovations could strengthen India's preventive healthcare ecosystem by enabling faster identification of oral cancer, particularly in underserved communities.