New AI Algorithm Analyzes Tongue Color to Detect Medical Conditions with 98% Accuracy
Researchers in Iraq and Australia have developed a computer algorithm that can analyze the color of a person’s tongue to detect their medical condition in real-time with 98% accuracy.
How it Works
The proposed imaging system mimics the traditional Chinese medicine practice of examining the tongue for signs of disease. For the study, patients sat 8 inches from a laptop equipped with a webcam, which took a picture of their tongue. Over 5,200 images were used to train the artificial intelligence model to identify tongue color and the corresponding condition. Researchers tested it with 60 tongue images from two teaching hospitals in the Middle East.
Accurate Detection
The program was able to determine the disease in almost all cases, with 98% accuracy. The researchers say the technology will eventually be used for a smartphone app that can diagnose diabetes, stroke, anemia, asthma, liver and gallbladder problems, COVID-19, and other conditions.
Potential Applications
The study authors believe that computerized tongue analysis is a secure, efficient, user-friendly, and affordable method for disease screening that backs up modern methods with a centuries-old practice. They plan to further develop the technology and address potential hurdles such as patient reluctance to provide data and reflections captured by the camera misleading the algorithm.
Expert’s View
Javaan Chahl, a professor at the University of South Australia and co-author of the study, says, “These results confirm that computerized tongue analysis is a secure, efficient, user-friendly and affordable method for disease screening that backs up modern methods with a centuries-old practice.”
Future Directions
While the technology holds great promise, there are still some challenges to overcome, including the need to build data sets and concerns about the accuracy of AI analysis. However, the authors believe that the technology has enormous value for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
Conclusion
The researchers’ algorithm has shown great promise in detecting medical conditions by analyzing tongue color. While there are still challenges to overcome, the potential benefits of this technology make it an exciting development in the field of medicine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the potential medical conditions that can be detected by analyzing tongue color?
A: According to the study, the technology can detect diabetes, stroke, anemia, asthma, liver and gallbladder problems, COVID-19, and other conditions.
Q: How accurate is the algorithm in detecting medical conditions?
A: The algorithm is able to detect medical conditions with 98% accuracy.
Q: Will the technology be available for use in a smartphone app?
A: Yes, the researchers plan to develop the technology into a smartphone app for widespread use.
Q: Are there any potential drawbacks to the technology?
A: Yes, the researchers have identified the need to build data sets and concerns about the accuracy of AI analysis as potential hurdles to overcome.
