Mysuru: Bharath Hospital & Institute of Oncology (BHIO) has launched Mysuru’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) system, marking a significant advancement in diagnostic healthcare.
Along with introducing cutting-edge technology, BHIO has announced a month-long free MRI screening for smokers and tobacco users every Sunday for the next four weeks.
Speaking after launching AI-powered MRI at BHIO here yesterday, Dr. B.S. Ajaikumar, Founder and Chairman of BHIO, said tobacco consumption is responsible for nearly 35 per cent of head and neck cancers.
Emphasising that early detection is key to successful treatment, he said the free non-contrast MRI screening will help identify early abnormalities in the lungs, oral cavity, tongue and other organs affected by tobacco use. The scan is completely safe, as it does not involve exposure to X-ray radiation.
He said blood samples will also be collected to study cancer-related biomarkers, and the findings of the four-week pilot project will be analysed before expanding the screening programme to other districts.
He said BHIO has been treating cancer patients for over 35 years and is now giving equal importance to prevention through awareness and early diagnosis. The hospital is also encouraging tobacco farmers to adopt alternative crops.
Dr. Y.S. Madhavi, Chief Radiation Oncologist and Medical Superintendent, said the launch of Mysuru’s first AI-powered MRI system reflects BHIO’s commitment to providing world-class, patient-centric diagnostic services and strengthening cancer care in the region. The system is equipped with intelligent imaging capabilities that automatically optimise scan parameters, minimise motion-related artifacts, reduce scan duration and assist radiologists.
Chief Radiologist Dr. K.M. Amogh said the AI-powered scanner, equipped with Deep Resolve and My Assist technologies, reduces scan time from 20 – 30 minutes to just 10 – 15 minutes while delivering superior image quality. The machine uses only 0.7 litres of “Sealed for Life” helium, compared to nearly 1,500 litres required in conventional MRI systems.
BHIO Directors Bhagya Ajaikumar and Anjali Ajaikumar, Chief Medical Oncologist Dr. C.B. Avinash, Radiologist Dr. K.R. Manohar Kumar and Chief Operating Officer Gowtham Dharmerla were present.
This post was published on August 4, 2026 7:30 pm