News
July 30, 2025
Tezpur University team develops low-cost device to detect tuberculosis
The portable device, which uses a smartphone, has been specially designed for use in rural and remote areas, where advanced medical facilities are not easily available, the researchers said
## Tezpur University Team Develops Low-Cost Device to Detect Tuberculosis
A team of researchers at Tezpur University has achieved a significant breakthrough in tuberculosis (TB) detection with the development of a new, low-cost, and portable device. This innovative device promises to bring accessible and accurate TB diagnosis to even the most remote corners of India.
Recognizing the challenges faced by rural and isolated communities in accessing advanced medical facilities, the researchers focused on creating a solution that is both affordable and easy to use. The resulting device leverages the power of readily available smartphone technology to perform its diagnostic function. By integrating with a smartphone, the device eliminates the need for expensive and bulky lab equipment, making it ideal for field use in areas where traditional diagnostic methods are unavailable or impractical.
The portability of the device is a key feature, allowing healthcare workers to easily carry it to villages and conduct on-site testing. This eliminates the often-difficult and time-consuming process of transporting samples to centralized labs, leading to quicker diagnosis and faster initiation of treatment for those infected with TB.
The research team believes this device has the potential to significantly impact TB control efforts, particularly in underserved populations. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial in preventing the spread of the disease and ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate medical care. The low cost of the device makes it a sustainable solution for resource-constrained settings, offering a viable alternative to more expensive and complex diagnostic techniques.
The Tezpur University team is optimistic that this innovation will contribute to a substantial reduction in the TB burden in rural and remote areas, ultimately improving the health and well-being of communities that have long struggled with limited access to healthcare. Further development and field testing are planned to refine the device and ensure its widespread adoption. This new technology represents a significant step forward in making TB diagnosis more accessible and affordable for all.
A team of researchers at Tezpur University has achieved a significant breakthrough in tuberculosis (TB) detection with the development of a new, low-cost, and portable device. This innovative device promises to bring accessible and accurate TB diagnosis to even the most remote corners of India.
Recognizing the challenges faced by rural and isolated communities in accessing advanced medical facilities, the researchers focused on creating a solution that is both affordable and easy to use. The resulting device leverages the power of readily available smartphone technology to perform its diagnostic function. By integrating with a smartphone, the device eliminates the need for expensive and bulky lab equipment, making it ideal for field use in areas where traditional diagnostic methods are unavailable or impractical.
The portability of the device is a key feature, allowing healthcare workers to easily carry it to villages and conduct on-site testing. This eliminates the often-difficult and time-consuming process of transporting samples to centralized labs, leading to quicker diagnosis and faster initiation of treatment for those infected with TB.
The research team believes this device has the potential to significantly impact TB control efforts, particularly in underserved populations. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial in preventing the spread of the disease and ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate medical care. The low cost of the device makes it a sustainable solution for resource-constrained settings, offering a viable alternative to more expensive and complex diagnostic techniques.
The Tezpur University team is optimistic that this innovation will contribute to a substantial reduction in the TB burden in rural and remote areas, ultimately improving the health and well-being of communities that have long struggled with limited access to healthcare. Further development and field testing are planned to refine the device and ensure its widespread adoption. This new technology represents a significant step forward in making TB diagnosis more accessible and affordable for all.
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Technology