Dognosis uses AI and dogs for cancer screening

Dognosis, a startup based in Bengaluru, India, is developing a non-invasive cancer screening method by combining the olfactory capabilities of trained dogs with artificial intelligence. The process involves patients breathing into a cotton mask for approximately 10 minutes to collect samples, which are then analyzed by dogs trained to identify specific cancer-related odors in human breath.

To enhance accuracy, sensors monitor the dogs' breathing, brain activity, and movements while they sniff the samples. AI is then used to analyze the animals' responses. A study involving over 1,500 participants demonstrated sensitivity and specificity rates exceeding 90 percent across six hospitals. Currently, 15 dogs are undergoing training, working limited shifts of 30 to 45 minutes per day. Researchers aim for this technology to serve as an affordable initial screening tool prior to conventional medical testing.