Scientists have succeeded in developing advanced artificial intelligence–based programs capable of diagnosing several serious diseases, most notably diabetes and stomach cancer, through a precise analysis of the color, texture, and shape of a patient’s tongue.
This breakthrough opens promising prospects for early diagnosis within healthcare institutions.
According to a scientific review that examined more than 20 studies, these software systems demonstrated a high level of accuracy, successfully identifying 58 cases of diabetes and anemia out of 60 patients, relying solely on the analysis of images of their tongues.
The results also revealed the technology’s ability to detect stomach cancer with an accuracy ranging between 85% and 90%, rates comparable to those of complex traditional medical examinations such as endoscopy and CT imaging.
This technology is based on algorithms trained on thousands of images, enabling them to detect subtle changes that may not be visible to the naked eye, including color distribution, swelling, and cracks.
Researchers explained that these visual characteristics are important biological indicators: a smooth tongue may indicate iron or vitamin deficiencies, while a dry tongue may suggest the presence of diabetes, making tongue examination a simple and effective medical tool thanks to modern technological advancements.
