Google and Perceptra, a technology licensing partner of Google, have announced a new initiative to deploy an artificial intelligence-powered screening program for diabetic retinopathy in Thailand.

The project is set to reach approximately one million people in underserved communities over the next decade.

Diabetic retinopathy, which affects one in three people with diabetes, is a leading cause of preventable blindness.

Globally, it is estimated that eight hundred million adults have diabetes, including six million in Thailand, making early detection and treatment crucial.

The initiative builds on nearly a decade of research by Google Research and its partners.

Previous studies at Aravind Eye Hospital in India in twenty seventeen and at Rajavithi Hospital in Thailand in twenty eighteen have examined the role of artificial intelligence in reducing preventable blindness.

In Thailand, the program is integrated into the National Diabetic Retinopathy Screening Programme and includes retrospective and prospective studies, implementation research, and analysis of programme effectiveness.

To date, the AI model has been used to screen over six hundred thousand patients in clinics worldwide.

Dr Paisal Ruamviboonsuk, a senior ophthalmologist at Rajavithi Hospital in Bangkok, is working with the Ministry of Public Health on the project.

Katherine Chou, head of product and user experience at Google Research, stated, "From initial research to the first patient screening in Thailand, we are committed to translating the potential of AI into meaningful change for people around the world." Jacky Wang, country director of Google Thailand, noted that the initiative aligns with the company’s commitment to ensuring that no Thai is left behind by providing timely screening and treatment.

Supichaya Pusitsopit, chief executive of Perceptra, said that integrating Google’s technology with Perceptra’s solutions will enable hospitals to deliver advanced diabetic retinopathy screening, setting a new standard for preventative care in Thailand.

The collaboration is part of a broader effort to leverage innovative technologies to address global health challenges, particularly in disease prevention and early diagnosis.