AI-Powered Mobile App Could Transform Lung Cancer Care Access in India, Experts Say
A mobile-based digital health application designed to support lung cancer patients outside hospital settings could significantly improve access to care in India, according to oncologists...
A mobile-based digital health application designed to support lung cancer patients outside hospital settings could significantly improve access to care in India, according to oncologists discussing emerging evidence at a national medical conference in Mumbai.
The potential of such technology was highlighted by Dr Akansha Choudhary, Assistant Professor in Medical Oncology and Hematology at AIIMS Bhopal, who presented international research on app-based supportive cancer care at the 9th Year End Review in Lung Cancer, held from December 19 to 21. The conference brought together leading specialists from institutions including AIIMS Delhi, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute, Medanta, Manipal Hospitals and HCG Cancer Centre, as per an official press release from AIIMS Bhopal.
Moving Cancer Care Beyond Hospital Walls
Traditionally, cancer management in India has depended heavily on in-person hospital visits, which can be difficult for patients living far from tertiary care centres. Experts at the conference noted that digital platforms could help address this long-standing challenge by enabling continuous monitoring and communication.
The mobile application discussed allows lung cancer patients to log symptoms, receive automated guidance, and stay connected with their oncology teams between appointments. Such tools, clinicians say, can help detect complications early, reduce unnecessary hospital visits, and provide emotional reassurance during treatment.
Dr Choudhary shared findings from a study conducted by Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, which examined the use of digital applications for supportive oncology care. According to the study, patients using app-based monitoring reported better symptom management and improved engagement with their care plans compared to conventional follow-up methods.
Why This Matters for India
India accounts for a significant and growing share of the global cancer burden, with lung cancer remaining one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. Access to specialised oncology services, however, remains uneven, particularly in smaller cities and rural regions.
Speaking at the conference, Dr Choudhary emphasised that adapting proven digital health models for the Indian healthcare system could help close gaps in affordability and access. App-based support, she noted, can complement hospital-based treatment by offering timely advice and psychological support without additional travel or cost burdens.
Public health experts attending the event also pointed out that such digital tools align with India’s broader push toward telemedicine and technology-enabled healthcare, accelerated in recent years by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Expert Discussions and Institutional Perspective
In addition to presenting the MGH study, Dr Choudhary participated in panel discussions on rare lung cancer mutations and evolving models of supportive care. According to organisers, these sessions drew strong interest from clinicians seeking practical ways to integrate innovation into routine oncology practice.
AIIMS Bhopal, where Dr Choudhary is based, has been expanding its oncology capabilities. The institute currently offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), chemotherapy, targeted therapies and immunotherapy. Officials say the integration of digital health solutions could further strengthen patient follow-up and outcomes, particularly for those unable to access frequent in-person care.
Looking Ahead
While experts caution that digital applications cannot replace clinical judgement or hospital-based treatment, there is growing consensus that they can play a critical supportive role. Wider adoption, they say, will depend on careful localisation, data privacy safeguards and validation through Indian clinical studies.
As India continues to modernise its healthcare delivery systems, oncologists believe that combining cutting-edge medical therapies with digital innovation could reshape cancer care—bringing consistent support, information and reassurance to patients regardless of where they live.