About Us
About DUALSAVE-FGS
DUALSAVE-FGS is a partnership of nine African and European institutions aiming at developing a cost-effective joint screening method for Female Genital Schistosomiasis and cervical cancer.
The partners will clinically validate the Spectral Artificial Vision (SAVE) colposcope, invented and developed by our partner QCELL, a biophotonics imaging company based in Greece.
SAVE is a low-cost, hand-held digital colposcope, integrating the most advanced spectral imaging and machine learning technologies with the possibility for large-scale implementation.
SAVE is capable of identifying cervical (pre-)cancer and hopefully FGS, instantly, and without being in contact with the patient. DUALSAVE-FGS will also provide virtual training of frontline primary health care professionals and gynaecologists in FGS diagnosis and management. A social science study will be carried out, to learn how procedures are perceived by patients and health professional.
Project Areas
South Africa | Eswatini | Mozambique
Our Mission
- To improve accuracy in diagnosing Female Genital Schistosomiasis by developing and testing a state-of-the-art portable colposcope over a period of four years.
- To increase knowledge and scientifically train and educate health professionals in FGS.
- To learn how local societies react culturally to diagnostic screening for FGS
Our Vision
The fight against FGS can only be won when a reliable diagnostic tool is available in the areas invested with the bilharzia parasite. The portable colposcope we are developing and testing can only be effective if the medical professionals are fully aware of the dangers of FGS and know how to use it. The end result is also dependent on respect for local culture.
Our Ambition
Through the use of IT technology and artificial intelligence, we will provide a reliable instrument able to photograph gynecological lesions. Via image recognition, health professionals will be able to distinguish between cervical cancer and female genital schistosomiasis.
Together with training, information and education on bilharzia, schistosomiasis and FGS, this will make a huge contribution to the quality of life in rural Africa.