Medtronic and the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy are partnering to provide endoscopy centers in underserved communities with AI-assisted colonoscopy tools to allow better access to colon cancer screenings.
According to a Feb. 22 press release, Amazon Web Services will support the effort to donate 50 Medtronic GI Genius intelligent endoscopy modules to facilities that primarily serve communities with low screening rates or where access to this technology is not currently available.
The program aims to increase early detection and diagnosis of polyps or colorectal cancers, to decrease colorectal cancer mortality rates.
"Addressing gaps in colorectal cancer screening is complex. We know that Black adults are more likely to be diagnosed and subsequently die from this disease," Douglas Rex, MD, president of ASGE said in the press release. "There are also disparities in screenings among different groups, including adults in rural communities."
ASGE will lead the application and selection process to determine which facilities will receive the donation. Initial recipients will be announced in March 2022 during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.