MUMBAI: In a groundbreaking initiative, KEM Hospital has launched the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) largest and most expensive clinical trial to date, aimed at transforming breast cancer diagnosis. The trial will involve 7,000 women and test a cutting-edge, AI-powered thermal imaging device over a period of 12 to 28 months.
The trial features a portable, high-resolution thermal scanner developed by Bengaluru-based NIRAMAI Health Analytix. Unlike traditional mammography, the device offers a non-invasive, radiation-free alternative that requires no physical contact or breast compression—eliminating the discomfort typically associated with X-ray-based screenings. During the scan, the participant sits alone in a private, curtained room while the thermal sensor analyzes temperature patterns across the chest.
“This is the largest BMC-funded trial we’ve ever undertaken,” said hospital officials, though exact cost figures were not disclosed. The device, valued at ₹50 lakh, has been installed at KEM free of cost under BMC’s startup incubation programme, pending clinical validation. If results are favorable, the hospital hopes to retain the machine permanently.
Dr. Shilpa Rao, associate professor of general surgery at KEM and principal investigator for the trial, said, “We’ve stipulated that the device stays at KEM if the trial succeeds. Thermal imaging has existed since the 2000s, but it lacks specificity—it often flags infections and inflammations, causing false positives and unnecessary anxiety or financial stress.”
What sets this trial apart is its use of artificial intelligence. The device scans over 400,000 temperature points on the chest to detect abnormal heat patterns. Within 24 hours, it generates a “breast health score,” indicating whether the scan results are benign, malignant, or need further investigation.
All trial participants will undergo three diagnostic tests—mammography, ultrasound, and the AI-powered thermal scan. Doctors will compare the results to evaluate the efficacy of the new technology against established methods.
In tandem with the trial, KEM Hospital has inaugurated a dedicated 15-bed ward exclusively for breast-related ailments—the first of its kind at a civic hospital since KEM established Mumbai’s first breast clinic 14 years ago.
“This has been a long-standing demand,” said Dr. Rao. “I’ve been pushing for a dedicated ward since 2010. Perhaps having a woman as the dean helped finally make it happen.”
Dean Dr. Sangeeta Ravat acknowledged the delay but emphasized her commitment to the cause. “Breast cancer patients are immunocompromised and need specialized care. This initiative is close to my heart. Earlier, there were hurdles, but we’ve overcome them now.”
Dr. Varsha Kulkarni, head of the General Surgery Department and key force behind the ward’s setup, added, “Women’s health must be prioritized. The new ward will ensure focused and compassionate care.”
With both the advanced trial and the dedicated ward, KEM Hospital is setting a new benchmark for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment in the public healthcare system.
