AI enhance TB detection on asymptomatic cases, ministry says

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia's Ministry of Health stated the integration of chest X-rays and artificial intelligence (AI)-based analysis enables the detection of asymptomatic tuberculosis (TB) cases that are often hidden and lack clear symptoms.

Imran Pambudi, Director of Health Services for Vulnerable Groups at the Ministry of Health, here in Jakarta on Thursday mentioned 6,039 cases of TB were identified, representing 2.3 per cent of the population when X-rays were used on a limited basis in 2023.

In 2024, when screening relied solely on symptoms, the number of detected cases declined sharply to 2,151.

"But in 2025, when the X-ray is once more implemented thoroughly, the case goes up to 7,972 or 3.6 percent (of penitentiaries' population). It shows clear message that the reach and quality of screening determines the number of cases identified," Pambudi remarked.

According to him, relying solely on symptoms in densely populated settings, such as correctional facilities, risks leaving thousands of TB cases go undiagnosed, allowing transmission to continue.

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He cited several studies from Africa and Asia, which shows that AI-assisted X-ray analysis consistently outperforms manual readings.

Previously, on June 29, Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin and Immigration and Corrections Minister Agus Andrianto inspected the launch of the TB Screening Kick-Off Program at the Nusakambangan Correctional Facility in Central Java.

The programme offers free health examinations for inmates, including symptom screening, physical examinations, and chest X-rays.

The screening is part of broader initiative to provide health screening to some 321 thousand people across 532 penitentiaries in Indonesia.

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Pambudi said the programme's great scale, spanning across 375 cities and districts, show the initiative is a measured national efforts to eliminate TB.

"Early detection means that treatment is earlier. Earlier treatment means the transmission can be stopped," he said.

Inmates' health is linked to public health as protecting from TB also protects the officers, families, and the community from the disease.

To ensure the long-term success of the programme, Pambudi stressed the need for sustained investment in diagnostic equipment, adequate funding, trained healthcare workers, and robust treatment monitoring systems.

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Reporter: Mecca Yumna Ning Prisie

Editor: Fransiska Ninditya

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