An Indian startup is training dogs and AI to detect cancer at early stages.

Dognosis, an Indian startup based in Bangalore, has developed an innovative method for the early detection of cancer. Their approach combines the unique olfactory abilities of specially trained sniffer dogs with cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology for analyzing exhaled breath samples.

The process begins with a person exhaling into a special mask. This mask is then delivered by courier to a research center. There, Labradors, Beagles, and Dutch Shepherds sniff the resulting sample. These specially trained dogs are able to detect chemical markers indicating the presence of tumors long before standard medical equipment can detect them.

Artificial intelligence plays a key role in eliminating human error. Sensors and algorithms track the dogs' breathing, movements, and even facial expressions, converting their reactions into clearly structured data.

According to Dognosis founder Akash Kulgoda, the technology is designed to detect over 20 types of cancer, divided into seven groups, including lung, breast, cervical, and oral cancers. During Phase II trials, early-stage detection accuracy reached approximately 90%. Remarkably, animals trained to recognize 10 cancer types were able to identify an 11th type, which they had not previously encountered.

This project aims to address the pressing issue of access to healthcare in India, where, despite a high cancer mortality rate, less than 2% of the population is screened. With funding from major foundations, Dognosis is preparing for large-scale trials involving 10,000 people at ten clinics. The company plans to launch a commercial at-home test next year and enter the US market by 2028.

The developers emphasize that the test system they are developing is positioned solely as a primary screening tool, not a definitive diagnosis. A positive result should serve as a signal for immediate consultation with a doctor and a full clinical examination.