Dhaka: The National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital (NINS) is set to introduce artificial intelligence (AI)-based medical services for stroke patients soon. “We will soon launch AI-based treatment for stroke patients. In this method, we will connect a special device to the CT scan machine, linked to a central server. When a patient undergoes a CT scan, the device will automatically display the extent of brain stroke. The patient’s data will go to the server, be processed by AI, and the system will then determine the appropriate course of treatment,” Professor Dr Kazi Gias Uddin Ahmed, Director of NINS, told BSS in an interview.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, about 95 percent of neurological investigation facilities are now available in Bangladesh. Dr. Ahmed stated that these investigations will now be conducted using AI-assisted software. He highlighted a quick procedure for stroke patients called mechanical thrombectomy (MT), which has already been introduced at the hospital. This procedure allows for the easy removal of blood clots, with AI helping to identify which specific part of the brain will yield the best results from clot removal. The integration of this AI technology into the CT scan machine will help measure the ‘core volume’-the amount of clotted blood.
Dr. Ahmed also discussed the increasing number of neurological patients in Bangladesh, attributing the rise mainly to strokes. He noted that the key risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol, often exacerbated by diets high in trans fat. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as poor sleep and overuse of mobile devices, can affect the hypothalamus in the brain, leading to complications that increase stroke risk.
Emphasizing the need for more specialized hospitals, Dr. Ahmed suggested establishing them in divisional cities like Chattogram, Rajshahi, and Khulna, as well as major district towns. He also advocated for the opening of specialized neurology units in medical colleges across the country to reduce the pressure on Dhaka.
Dr. Ahmed highlighted the importance of district hospitals being equipped to perform CT scans and having either a neurologist or radiologist on staff, enabling immediate treatment for stroke patients. He pointed out that in other countries, stroke patients receive emergency care through ambulance-based systems equipped with mobile CT scan machines, allowing for timely interventions that prevent disability.
The main challenge in Bangladesh, according to Dr. Ahmed, is the lack of quick transport systems like mobile stroke units or special ambulances, coupled with traffic issues that delay treatment. He stressed the need to improve transport, traffic management, and road systems to enhance stroke care.
On the topic of medical staff, Dr. Ahmed mentioned that the current number of doctors is adequate, but there is a need to increase operation theaters and anesthesiology staff for neurosurgery. He also emphasized the importance of stroke prevention through stress management, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and controlling diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure.
Dr. Ahmed concluded by highlighting the need for nationwide awareness campaigns to educate people about stroke symptoms and prevention, suggesting that involving teachers and mosque imams could be particularly effective in disseminating this information.