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University of Iowa Health Care and Naitive Technologies have announced a joint project to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of OsteoSight, an FDA-designated medical device designed to identify people at risk of low bone mineral density (BMD) using X-rays taken for other reasons.
OsteoSight aims to enhance the early detection of osteoporosis, a condition affecting millions globally, and enable more timely interventions.
The primary focus of this project is to evaluate the accuracy of OsteoSight in identifying individuals at risk of low BMD, as compared to the current gold standard dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan (DEXA). The study will also investigate any potential biases in the machine learning model and evaluate the reasons behind any instances of failed image processing. The study will utilise up to 2,500 hip and pelvic X-ray images taken within 12 months of a DEXA scan.
“All efforts to diagnose and treat osteoporosis are important. Using technology to assess bone health from standard imaging may give us an opportunity to assess bone health earlier and intervene sooner—before the first fracture occurs," says Lori Fitton, PhD, ARNP, a nurse practitioner with University of Iowa Health Care Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation.
Read more: Naitive secures innovate UK funding to expand osteoporosis screening tool
Osteoporosis is a huge global health challenge. Every year, it leads to 37 million fractures and costs health systems billions. It is widely underdiagnosed and undertreated, and uptake of screening, which uses DEXA, is low. Many cases are only diagnosed when it's too late, and a fracture has already occurred.
Patient involvement is a vital part of this project, and the researchers will collaborate with an engaged group of patients at the University of Iowa. Their involvement will provide valuable insights into the lived experiences of patients with osteoporosis and will enhance the study's overall impact.
"We are thrilled to work with the team at University of Iowa Health Care on this project," said John Connell, PhD, principal scientist at Naitive Technologies. "Our goal is to make early detection more accessible, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life, and this study will help us ensure OsteoSight is as effective as possible."
You can hear more about this device and the side effects of osteoporosis on an episode of The FemTech Series on the MedTalk Podcast.
