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Kenya Purchases A Retinal Scanner For Diabetes And Hypertension Diagnosis

In to reduce the rising prevalence of diabetes and hypertension in the nation, local specialists will begin employing noninvasive technologies. In contrast to the intrusive screening techniques now in use, the health ministry on Monday acquired equipment from AstraZeneca that uses retinal scanning technology to anticipate the risk or presence of problems emerging from hypertension and diabetes. A single retinal scan will be able to detect the possibility or existence of problems, strengthening local research capabilities and enhancing the nation's NCD screening program.The computerized Non Mydriatic camera will be able to foresee hazards like eye diseases in addition to diabetes and hypertension. Health CAS Rashid Aman stated that the application and evaluation of this digital Non Mydriatic camera will advance innovation in the early diagnosis of systemic issues appearing as eye disease, effectively controlling an essential health concern. The device will be used by researchers at the Aga Khan University Hospital , Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kenyatta National Hospital, and University of Nairobi.

Traditionally, a blood pressure measuring device attached to a cuff wrapped around the upper left arm is used to test for hypertension, or more generally known as high blood pressure.

On the other hand, diabetes is tested by drawing blood, which is intrusive, more expensive, and necessitates a lengthier wait for the results. The method may not be preferred by those who loathe needles. With the new technology, a person's retina will be concurrently scanned in order to check for both diabetes and hypertension.

After that, machine learning and artificial intelligence will filter the image through a cloud-based database and compare it to millions of other retinal scans to determine whether the person has any of the conditions. It is quick, non-intrusive, and may be economical in the long run, particularly for extensive population checks.

Access to healthcare is a crucial component of AstraZeneca's sustainability strategy, and the company is always relying on science to increase the resilience and sustainability of healthcare systems, according to Ashling Mulvaney. At AstraZeneca, Mulvaney serves as vice president of global sustainability and access to healthcare.

According to the ministry, the prevalence of diabetes has increased from 2% in 2015 to 3.3% as of today, with experts predicting a further rise to 4.5% by 2025. One in four people in Kenya are known to have hypertension, yet only 8% of them are receiving treatment, and just 4% have their blood pressure under control.

Content created and supplied by: Gesora (via Opera News )

Aga Khan University AstraZeneca Kenya Kenya Medical Research Institute University of Nairobi

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