Designing CITOBOT: A portable device for cervical cancer screening using human-centered design, smart prototyping,...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Public Health
• Artificial Intelligence

Background:

• Cervical cancer is a major global health issue, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
• Existing cervical image quality faces persistent challenges despite technological progress.
• The CITOBOT-COL project addresses these challenges through a translational research initiative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the development of CITOBOT, a portable cervical cancer screening device.
• To detail the human-centered design, smart prototyping, and AI integration for CITOBOT.
• To validate the device's functionality and effectiveness in screening cervical cancer.

Main Methods:

• Four design iterations led to the development of CITOBOT v4, a portable device.
• Human-centered design principles guided the technological development process.
• AI algorithms (Inception V3, Transfer Learning, Fine Tuning) were developed for image classification and risk assessment, integrated with offline software.

Main Results:

• Prototypes were refined through expert feedback and testing on anatomical models.
• The device focuses on capturing high-quality cervical images for accurate screening.
• AI algorithms provide cervical image classification and physician guidance for risk assessment.

Conclusions:

• CITOBOT v4 represents a significant advancement in portable cervical cancer screening technology.
• The device's development emphasizes innovation in resource-limited settings.
• CITOBOT offers a potential solution to improve screening accessibility and reduce mortality in vulnerable populations.