B.S. Ajaikumar, founder and chairman of BHIO and others at the launch of an AI-powered MRI scanning system at Bharat Hospital in Mysuru on Monday.

| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Bharat Hospital and Institute of Oncology (BHIO) on Monday launched an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) system, marking a significant advancement in diagnostic healthcare. Along with introducing the cutting-edge technology, the hospital has announced free MRI screening programme for smokers and tobacco users every Sunday for the next four weeks.Speaking after launching the MRI at BHIO here, B.S. Ajaikumar, founder and chairman of BHIO, said tobacco consumption is responsible for nearly 35% of head and neck cancers. Emphasising that early detection is key to successful treatment, he said the free non-contrast MRI screening would 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 would also be collected to study cancer-related biomarkers, and the findings of the four-week pilot project would be analysed before expanding the screening programme to other districts.Dr. Ajaikumar said BHIO has been treating cancer patients for over 35 years and is now giving equal importance to prevention through awareness and early diagnosis.Y.S. Madhavi, chief radiation oncologist and medical superintendent, said the launch of the AI-powered MRI system strengthens patient-centric diagnostic services and cancer care in the region. The system is equipped with intelligent imaging capabilities that assist radiologists in the early detection of a wide range of diseases.Chief radiologist Amogh K.M. 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.BHIO directors Bhagya Ajaikumar and Anjali Ajaikumar, chief medical oncologist Avinash C.B., Radiologist Manohar Kumar K.R., and chief operating officer Gowtham Dharmerla were present. Published - August 03, 2026 06:52 pm IST