Kathmandu, Nepal (9 May 2024) - The Stop TB Partnership is collaborating on an initiative to raise awareness and showcase use of innovation in TB, one of the deadliest infectious diseases globally, using ultra portable X-ray technology combined with artificial intelligence (AI). The initiative will culminate in a Guinness World Record attempt to take an X-ray at the highest altitude ever, on Kala Patthar, above Everest Base Camp in Nepal.
Tuberculosis affects over 10 million people yearly but remains undiagnosed in about 3 million cases, often due to lack of access to diagnostic tools. The disease disproportionately impacts vulnerable communities, where it can remain undiagnosed and untreated due to the limited access to TB tools and interventions.
Under the initiative "Carrying TB Innovations to New Heights," the Guinness World Record attempt together with MinXray (USA) and Qure.ai (India) aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of portable X-ray machines, enhanced with AI, to reach remote and underserved areas. The equipment will first be showcased at the Himalayan Rescue Association’s health facility in the village of Pheriche, Nepal, at an altitude of 4,250 meters, and subsequently carried on a trek to Kala Patthar, reaching approximately 5,644 meters above sea level. This demonstration seeks to set a Guinness World Record for the highest altitude X-ray ever performed. The equipment will be donated to a local health facility to support the local population. The Himalayan Rescue Association provides services to more than 100,000 people annually in remote mountainous regions of Nepal.
Dr. Lucica Ditiu, the Executive Director of the Stop TB Partnership said: "Bringing this advanced diagnostic tool to one of the earth's highest points symbolizes Stop TB’s commitment to pushing boundaries and reaching the unreached. With this technology, we aim to showcase that no region, no matter how remote, should be beyond the reach of life-saving health services. The TB community can use these tools to reach all people we miss every year."
Ultra-portable X-ray machines are capable of operating without direct electricity, taking over 100 images per battery charge. AI software can rapidly analyse chest X-rays for TB as well as other pulmonary conditions. This setup proves essential for early detection and comprehensive healthcare in isolated areas. The ultra-portable machine will be equipped with AI to help screen for TB as well as other lung conditions which is something Stop TB Partnership’s TB REACH initiative has been supporting through partners in 8 countries with more grants being considered in Wave 11.
Dr Jacob Creswell who leads the TB REACH initiative added, "This event isn't just a demonstration of technological innovation; it's a lifeline to those with limited access to care. Our goal at TB REACH has always been to bridge the gap between available technology and the communities most in need of it, and support local innovators to reach all people with the best care.”
This initiative is particularly significant for the Himalayan regions where healthcare access is often hampered by geographic and economic barriers. More than 70,000 people develop TB every year in Nepal, and CXR can help close the gap to screen and diagnose more of them. The TB response in Nepal is deploying the technology which is not only pivotal for TB screening but also for diagnosing a range of other lung diseases, thereby enhancing overall community health.
The Stop TB Partnership intends to document this mission of taking TB innovations to the highest mountain in the world. Follow us on our social media from today to 20th and see the updates as the team moves up the Everest to take the fight to end TB to new heights!