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

BACKGROUND: 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. AIMS: To assess the acceptance and explore challenges for an artificial intelligence-based screening solution for breast health among the urban slum population. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A mixed-method study was conducted in urban slums of central Karnataka, India. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 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. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: 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. RESULTS: 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. CONCLUSIONS: 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.