Acceptance of artificial intelligence (AI)-based screening for breast health in urban slums of central Karnataka, India - SWOC analysis.

Abstract

Artificial intelligence-based imaging is a low-cost, radiation-free solution for the breast imaging process that uses infrared radiation emitted by the body. This is a novel procedure that, when feasible, could be a better solution, particularly in underprivileged communities having low access to breast health care. To assess the acceptance and explore challenges for an artificial intelligence-based screening solution for breast health among the urban slum population. A mixed-method study was conducted in urban slums of central Karnataka, India. The study was carried out for a period of two years in 2019-21 among women in the reproductive age group in urban slums of central Karnataka to understand the acceptance of an artificial intelligence-based imaging solution for screening breast health. In-depth interviews were conducted to identify the strength, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges (SWOC) screening for breast health. Quantitative data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) v16.0, and for qualitative data, manual descriptive content analysis was carried out, and the sub-themes were generated. A total of 768 women accessed the thermalytix ® breast imaging services, the majority of them in the age group 31-40 years (35%), belonging to the Muslim religion (68.5%) with a mean monthly family income of Rs. 11,950.67/- SWOC analysis identified reduced cost for the screening services and involvement of female self-help groups (SHGs) as strengths. Weaknesses included poor breast health awareness among women and the stigma associated with breast cancer. Artificial intelligence-based screening is a feasible solution for breast health in low-income, low health access areas like urban slums. Engagement of the local community and active involvement of the health system is of paramount importance for the sustainability of any novel strategy.