Kirinyaga embraces AI in bid to boost TB diagnosis

A patient is examined with artificial intelligence equipment during the World TB Day 2025 celebrations in Kutus town, on March 26, 2025.  [Jane Mugambi, Standard]

Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru's administration has embraced artificial intelligence (AI) in efforts to boost  tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis.

The AI-powered digital X-ray system is aimed at ensuring early diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

The unveiling of this cutting-edge equipment during the World TB Day 2025 celebrations, marks a significant milestone in the fight against TB, that remains a serious public health concern.

The new digital X-ray machine, which utilises advanced automated technology and pre-installed Computer-Aided Detection (CAD) software, promises to revolutionise the TB screening. It's precision in interpreting X-ray images enhances diagnosis, speeding up treatment and minimising further transmission of the disease.

Speaking during the celebrations in Kutus town on Monday, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Medical Services, Public Health, and Sanitation George Karoki, expressed confidence that the new technology will help ="https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/sports/health-science/article/2001501957/a-closer-look-at-tuberculosis-kenyas-leading-health-threat">curb TB infections<.

"The AI-enabled X-ray is portable, allowing us to take it to TB hotspots and remote areas, bringing diagnosis closer to the people," Karoki said.

He noted that enhanced TB screening services in the county have improved outcomes with 1,597 cases detected in 2024, up from 1,516 in 2023, noting that the outcomes are expected to be better with the introduction of new technology and equipment. About 94 TB facilities offer diagnostic services while 25 offer treatment services.

With the World Health Organisation recommending chest X-rays as a key screening tool for TB, this new technology will assist in identifying individuals who need further testing and treatment, helping to prevent the spread of the disease.

"Detecting TB early is vital because around 50 per cent of cases are asymptomatic and the faster we can diagnose and treat TB, the less likely it is to spread in the community," said Karoki, adding that once diagnosed, the disease is treatable and incurable.

He assured that the county’s health facilities are equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, including the AI-enabled portable digital X-ray and laboratory-based GeneXpert testing, technologies that all play a crucial role in early and precise detection of TB, as well as screening for drug resistance.

Governor Waiguru, who has been an advocate for public health improvement, reiterated her administration’s commitment to eradicating TB in the county. "TB remains one of the leading causes of death among people living with HIV. Yet, it is ="https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/health/opinion/article/2001463738/increasing-cases-of-tuberculosis-a-wake-up-call-to-kenya-world">preventable, treatable, and curable<. We will continue to educate both healthcare workers and the public on the importance of early diagnosis and proper treatment," she said.

The new X-ray Unit was achieved through collaboration with Dhabiti Project and LVCT Health;Dr. Christine Ogolla, Director Dhibiti Project emphasized the impact the machine will have on diagnosing TB and HIV, particularly for HIV patients who are more susceptible to TB.

The governor said misdiagnosis and delayed detection are major challenges in eradicating the disease.

"This technology will therefore not only improve TB detection but will also help people with HIV live longer, healthier lives," She noted.

Among the highlights of the World TB Day event were ="https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/health/health-science/article/2001477860/i-lived-through-tuberculosis-twice-it-can-be-treated">testimonials from individuals< who have overcome TB, offering hope and encouragement to others facing the disease.

Charity Wanjiru, a former TB patient who is now a TB champion, shared her journey to recovery, urging victims to be hopeful.

"TB is treatable as long as patients faithfully adhere to the prescribed regimen," Wanjiru said, her story serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of completing the full course of treatment.

John Ochieng, a lab technician and former TB patient, also spoke passionately about his experience, encouraging residents to take persistent cough seriously.

"Anyone can get infected with TB," Ochieng said. "Early diagnosis and treatment saved my life, and it can save others too."

TB is a serious illness that mainly affects the lungs. The bacteria that causes the disease spreads when a patient coughs and sneezes releasing tiny droplets with the germs into the air that are inhaled and enter the lungs causing the infection.