IIT Madras Researchers Develop AI Model to Determine the Age of a Foetus

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) have made a significant breakthrough in prenatal care by developing an artificial intelligence (AI) model that can accurately determine the age of a foetus in pregnant women during the second and third trimesters. This India-specific AI model, known as “Garbhini-GA2,” was developed in collaboration with the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), and is the first of its kind to be validated using Indian population data. By accurately estimating the gestational age of a foetus, the model can enhance the care provided by obstetricians and neonatologists, ultimately reducing both maternal and infant mortality rates in India.

Researchers Develop India-Specific AI Model

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) have collaborated with the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) to develop the first India-specific artificial intelligence (AI) model for determining the age of a foetus during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. This model, known as Garbhini-GA2, focuses on estimating the gestational age (GA) of the foetus accurately. Accurate GA is essential for the appropriate care of pregnant women and determining precise delivery dates.

Current Methods of Determining Foetal Age

Currently, the age of a foetus is determined using a formula developed for the Western population. However, this formula may not accurately estimate the age of the foetus in the Indian population during the later stages of pregnancy. There are variations in the growth of the foetus in the Indian population, which can lead to errors when using the Western formula. Thus, there is a need for a model specifically tailored to the Indian population.

Introduction to Garbhini-GA2

Garbhini-GA2 is an AI-based model that focuses on estimating the gestational age of the foetus in the second and third trimesters. This model has been developed and validated using Indian population data, making it specific to the Indian population. By using this model, the error in estimating the foetal age for the Indian population can be significantly reduced.

Impact of Garbhini-GA2

The development of Garbhini-GA2 has the potential to greatly improve the care delivered by obstetricians and neonatologists. By accurately estimating the gestational age of the foetus, healthcare providers can provide appropriate care to pregnant women and determine precise delivery dates. This, in turn, can lead to a reduction in maternal and infant mortality rates in India.

Validation of Population-Specific Models

The Garbhini-GA2 model, along with other population-specific models, is currently being validated across the country. The validation process includes rigorous testing and analysis to ensure the accuracy and reliability of these models. This will further strengthen the evidence base for their use in clinical practice.

Researchers and Institutions Involved

The development of the Garbhini-GA2 model was led by Himanshu Sinha, an associate professor at IIT Madras, and Shinjini Bhatnagar, the principal investigator of the GARBH-Ini programme at THSTI. They collaborated with other researchers and institutions to carry out this study. The expertise and collaboration of these individuals and institutions have been crucial in the successful development of the model.

Publication in Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia

The findings of the study and the development of the Garbhini-GA2 model have been published in the prestigious international peer-reviewed journal, Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia. The publication of the research in such a renowned journal highlights the significance and impact of the work conducted by the researchers.

Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC-THSTI)

The Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC-THSTI) is an institute under the Department of Biotechnology. It serves as a catalyst for translating fundamental discoveries into clinical research. The research and development of the Garbhini-GA2 model align with the objectives and mission of BRIC-THSTI.

Importance of Study for Healthcare in India

The development of the Garbhini-GA2 model and the research conducted by IIT Madras and THSTI are of significant importance for healthcare in India. This study contributes to solving healthcare problems at the grassroots level by utilizing advanced data science and AI/ML techniques. By developing accurate GA models specific to the Indian population, the study aims to improve the prediction of birth outcomes and enhance public healthcare in India.

Future Applications and Developments

The successful development of the Garbhini-GA2 model opens up possibilities for further advancements in public healthcare in India. This model can be expanded and applied to address other healthcare challenges and improve the overall quality of care provided to the population. To ensure continuous progress, collaborations and partnerships between IIT Madras and THSTI will be fostered, allowing for ongoing research and development in this field.

In conclusion, the collaboration between IIT Madras and THSTI has resulted in the development of an India-specific AI model for estimating the gestational age of foetuses in the second and third trimesters. This Garbhini-GA2 model has the potential to greatly improve obstetric and neonatal care, leading to a reduction in maternal and infant mortality rates in India. The validation and publication of the research findings in a prestigious journal further highlight the significance of this study. With the support of institutions like BRIC-THSTI, the study contributes to solving healthcare problems at the grassroots level and paves the way for future advancements in public healthcare in India.