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Singapore – A groundbreaking smartphone application, BiliSG, has been developed by Singapore General Hospital (SGH), SingHealth Polyclinics (SHP), and Synapxe to enable parents to screen their newborns for neonatal jaundice (NNJ) from the comfort of their homes. This innovative tool, detailed in a study published in JAMA Network Open, utilizes artificial intelligence to analyze skin color and predict bilirubin levels, offering a convenient and safer alternative to frequent clinic visits.
The app’s development involved a two-phase study. In Phase 2, researchers validated the machine learning model by analyzing images of 352 clinically stable infants, all born at 35 weeks or later and within 21 days of age. The app captured images of the infants’ forehead, chest, and abdomen, taken with a special color-calibration sticker. The results were then compared to existing NNJ testing methods.
The study demonstrated that BiliSG achieved 100% sensitivity, indicating its reliability in detecting jaundice. This advancement allows for accurate monitoring of bilirubin levels, crucial for preventing potential complications related to untreated NNJ.
Neonatal jaundice, a common condition affecting 60% of full-term and 80% of pre-term infants, poses a significant health concern. The new app addresses the need for accessible and efficient screening, particularly for multi-ethnic Asian newborns, where the prevalence of NNJ can be higher.
“This app represents a significant step forward in infant care, providing parents with a tool to closely monitor their baby’s health at home,” stated a spokesperson from SGH. “With telemedicine support from family doctors, parents can manage their baby’s condition effectively and safely.”
The developers plan to further validate the app across various smartphone operating systems and camera specifications. Additionally, a pilot study will be conducted to assess the app’s clinical feasibility.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.1 Parents should always consult with their healthcare provider for any concerns regarding their baby’s health. The prevalence of neonatal jaundice may vary among different ethnic groups, and this app has been specifically validated for multi-ethnic Asian newborns. Further studies are needed to determine its efficacy across other demographics.
