After recent experiments, scientists have developed an algorithm that can detect anemia. Using smartphone recordings, they were able to identify anemia with an accuracy of more than 70%. This makes it possible to use images of the inner eyelidHemoglobin concentration in the bloodto estimate. A smartphone app could therefore serve as a way to diagnose anemic people living in remote places.
Could simple technologies detect anemia in the future?
Fatigue, dizziness, headaches, shortness of breath and difficulty concentrating are among the common symptoms of this condition. Severe anemia often results from malnutrition, parasitic infections, or underlying illnesses. It is a significant risk factor for death and morbidity. This is particularly true for vulnerable groups, which include children, older adults and those with chronic illnesses. Researchers found that using a smartphone image of the inner lower eyelid was about 72% accurate in diagnosing anemia. According to the authors of the study, there is a need for a cost-effective, accessible and non-invasive tool in this regard and this existing and widely used technology would be the ideal tool for this. Researchers chose the inner lower eyelid, called the palpebral conjunctiva, because it has the following unique features:
- It is easily accessible for photography.
- There are no competing colors between blood vessels and the conjunctival surface.
- The distance between the surface and blood vessels is very small.
- Temperature and other environmental factors do not have a significant impact on blood flow in this area.
By zooming in on a small area in each photo, the researchers were able to develop an algorithm that maximizes color resolution, as well as a predictive model that compares the skin and whites of the eyes with hemoglobin levels. The results of the study showed that flash photography was not necessary to detect anemia with acceptable images. Additionally, this method delivers data directly from the camera sensor without the typical processing and compression. The study results form the basis for the development of an application in a smartphone. This could not only capture the image, but also analyze the elements in the image to assess hemoglobin concentration in real time, according to the authors.This studySo diagnosing anemia using a smartphone is a viable concept. The following projects could have a positive impact on large populations and contribute to global health.
