Mother misdiagnosed with cancer; Son invents equipment for oral scan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Subhash Narayanan, a retired scientist has spearheaded a pioneering initiative with Sascan Meditech Startup introducing an innovative 'Oral Scan' device and software to detect oral cancer. Inspired by personal experiences witnessing his mother's misdiagnosis and subsequent treatment for a cancer she did not have, Narayanan embarked on an 18-year-long research journey.

The 'OralScan' technology now widely utilized in multiple Indian hospitals including the prestigious RCC emerged victorious with the Best Startup Award from Nasscom, a conglomerate of IT companies. CEO Narayanan, a 70-year-old native of Cheruvakkal, Thiruvananthapuram transitioned to entrepreneurship post-retirement leveraging his extensive background in physics and laser technology from his tenure at the Akkulam Center for Earth Science.

This innovation priced at five lakhs interfaces with a computer via USB, utilizing a small monochrome camera placed within the mouth to display oral cell images on the screen. Its efficiency lies in the immediate identification of cancerous indications through the presence of red and dark colors. The device minimizes unnecessary biopsies potentially reducing both patient costs and time.

Narayanan's team comprising 15 professionals including engineers and doctors continues to expand and refine this revolutionary diagnostic tool. With about 50 devices produced thus far, Sascan Meditech's OralScan has already made its way to dental colleges, hospitals in Maharashtra and the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC).

Furthermore, in recognition of his exceptional contribution to technology, Narayanan received the National Technology Award. Not stopping at oral cancer detection, the team is also developing a device to detect cervical cancer.

In a heartfelt statement, Narayanan reflected on his motivation, saying, "I grew up seeing my mother Lekshmi taking treatment for neck cancer from her earliest days. By the time she found out she was misdiagnosed and didn't have cancer, a good portion of her life was over."

With over 70,000 oral cancer cases annually in India, this innovative technology promises a crucial role in early detection and potentially life-saving interventions. OralScan marks a significant advancement in cancer screening aiming to transform diagnostic standards for better patient outcomes.