Mbarara data hub using AI and medical images for diagnosis
MUST Data Science Research Hub (MUDSReH)
This project uses AI on clinic and phone images to help detect eye problems and cancers earlier for people in Uganda and the surrounding region.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mbarara University/science/ Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Mbarara, Uganda) |
| Project ID | NIH-11190949 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project will build a data science hub at Mbarara University that collects medical images (including mobile phone and fundus photos) and applies machine learning to improve detection of eye disease and cancer. The hub will train local clinicians and data scientists in image capture, AI methods, and implementation science so tools can be used in routine care. Teams will pilot optimized imaging approaches and AI algorithms, then use implementation methods to bring successful tools into clinics and regional networks. Regional summits and partnerships will help expand the work across sub‑Saharan Africa.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People attending participating clinics with eye symptoms or who are undergoing cancer screening in Uganda or partner sites would be the most likely candidates to participate.
Not a fit: People not receiving care at participating clinics or those outside the program region are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this hub's projects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could enable earlier, more accurate diagnosis using locally captured images and AI, improving access to care in Uganda and nearby countries.
How similar studies have performed: AI for fundus photos and some cancer image tasks has shown promise elsewhere, but adapting and implementing these tools in sub‑Saharan Africa is less established.
Where this research is happening
Mbarara, Uganda
- Mbarara University/science/ Technology — Mbarara, Uganda (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaggwa, Fred — Mbarara University/science/ Technology
- Study coordinator: Kaggwa, Fred
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.