This Small, Affordable Device Prescreens for Tuberculosis
This Small, Affordable Device Prescreens for Tuberculosis
https://www.cnet.com/health/medical/this-small-affordable-device-prescreens-for-tuberculosis/
Publish Date: 2026-03-06 19:31:00
Source Domain: www.cnet.com
- The South African startup AI Diagnostics unveiled a new medical accessory at MWC 2026: a wireless stethoscope designed to screen for tuberculosis (TB) by listening to a person’s breathing.
- In areas with widespread childhood vaccinations, TB is still a major health threat for adults due to limited efficacy of the vaccine in adults.
- The novel TB monitor uses two microphones to analyze breathing and detect TB early, aiming to be used by non-specialized healthcare professionals.
- The device strives to be cost-effective, with pricing at under $1 per test, compared to more expensive methods like chest X-rays or sputum tests.
- AI Diagnostics leases the stethoscopes to communities in South Africa and aims to expand to other African and Asian countries, pending medical certification in each region.
- The company’s AI compares lung recordings to a TB audio database developed from 15 studies in 10 countries, aiming to grow its database for wider demographic accuracy.
- The monitor is certified under ISO 13485 and is seeking WHO recommendation to enter additional markets.
- The company plans to use its technology beyond TB to screen for other lung and heart conditions.
