Using smartphones to detect diabetic eye disease in Egypt
Smartphone-based Retinal Imaging for Diabetic Retinopathy Detection in Egypt
This study is working on a new, affordable way to check for eye problems caused by diabetes using smartphones, making it easier for people in places like Egypt to get the eye care they need and help prevent blindness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kennesaw State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kennesaw, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11060370 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a portable and cost-effective method for detecting diabetic retinopathy using smartphones. By attaching a retinal imaging device to smartphones, the project aims to capture high-quality images of the retina, which will then be analyzed using advanced deep learning algorithms. This approach is particularly important in low- and middle-income countries like Egypt, where traditional imaging equipment is often too expensive and bulky for widespread use. The goal is to improve access to retinal screening and ultimately reduce the risk of blindness among individuals with diabetes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with diabetes and are at risk for diabetic retinopathy.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have diabetes or those with advanced diabetic retinopathy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance early detection of diabetic retinopathy, leading to timely treatment and prevention of vision loss.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using smartphone technology for medical imaging, indicating that this approach could be effective for diabetic retinopathy detection.
Where this research is happening
Kennesaw, United States
- Kennesaw State University — Kennesaw, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Karakaya, Mahmut — Kennesaw State University
- Study coordinator: Karakaya, Mahmut
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.