Google’s pilot project in Thailand will use AI to assess medical images of the back of the eye to detect signs of diabetic retinopathy. Credit: Thomas Hawk.

Google has launched an artificial intelligence (AI) research project in Thailand for screening an eye disease called diabetic retinopathy that leads to permanent blindness if left untreated.

The pilot programme will involve the same AI system that was tested in India and the US for assessing medical images of the back of the eye to detect disease signs.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Go deeper with GlobalData

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

Google said that the AI model demonstrated accuracy on par with that of ophthalmologists, with high sensitivity and specificity. The tech company added that the model could help screen more patients in less time.

Being carried out in alliance with the Rajavithi Hospital, the pilot is intended to enable people in Thailand to get screenings that can potentially detect the condition early, when blindness can be prevented.

“Deploying this technology in underserved communities that don’t have enough eye specialists could be life-changing for many.”

Google in its blog post said: “Deploying this technology in underserved communities that don’t have enough eye specialists could be life-changing for many.

“We should work to make the benefits of AI available to everyone. Besides rolling out this diabetic retinopathy initiative in clinics in India with our partner Verily, we’ve also been conducting research in Thailand over the past few months.”

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

In August, Google announced findings from a new study of its AI system conducted in the US. The system was found to quickly and accurately detect nearly 50 eye disorders from routine medical scans.

The technology can automatically identify the characteristics of eye diseases within seconds. It can be applied to different eye scanners, facilitating easy integration into hospitals and other clinical settings.

In February, Google said that its AI can analyse retinal images to predict cardiovascular (CV) risk factors.

Medical Device Network Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Medical Device Network Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact

Excellence in Action
SC MEDICA’s minimally invasive, radiation free spinal facet fixation system, FFX® is transforming spinal pain management and improving outcomes for surgeons and patients alike. Learn how SC MEDICA’s award-winning technology is redefining standards in facet joint pain treatment.

Discover the Impact