IIT-Bombay Develops Portable, Affordable Tinnitus Diagnostic Device
Introduction
Tinnitus, a condition marked by the perception of sound without an external source—commonly described as ringing in the ears—affects millions globally. To tackle this widespread and often debilitating issue, researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B) have developed a groundbreaking device that is portable, affordable, and effective in diagnosing and managing tinnitus.
The Impact of Tinnitus
Tinnitus is not a disease but a symptom of underlying conditions like hearing loss, ear infections, or exposure to loud noise. Often described as ringing, buzzing, or humming, it can significantly impact daily life. Tinnitus can lead to severe challenges, including sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, irritability, and a negative impact on mental health. These issues often disrupt social life and leave individuals demoralized, significantly reducing their quality of life.
As per data published in JAMA Neurology (2022), tinnitus affects more than 740 million adults worldwide. Of these, over 120 million experience severe symptoms that require immediate intervention.
Key Features of the Device
The newly developed device integrates with an Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled software application, offering a holistic approach to tinnitus care. Its key features include:
- Precise Tinnitus Matching: The device identifies the specific frequency and characteristics of the sound perceived by the patient.
- Customizable Multimodal Management: Through a mobile-based software application, it offers tailored management strategies that include sound therapy and other treatment modalities.
- Progress Tracking: The device enables users to monitor the progression of their symptoms over time, facilitating more effective treatment adjustments.
- Affordable and Portable: Its cost-effectiveness and compact design ensure accessibility, especially in underserved areas.
Clinical trials have demonstrated the device’s ability to significantly reduce symptoms, enhancing the quality of life for patients.
The Research and Development Team
This innovative solution is the result of collaborative efforts led by Professor Maryam Shojaei Baghini and Neeleshkumar Pandit, supported by a group of M.Tech students from IIT-Bombay. They worked in tandem with a team of renowned medical experts, including Dr. Milind Kirtane, Dr. Arpit Sharma, Dr. Sangeeta Varty, and Nishita Mohandas, all affiliated with Hinduja Hospital, Mumbai.
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The project involved extensive design, development, and clinical evaluation to ensure the device met diagnostic accuracy and effectiveness standards.
Funding and Support
This breakthrough was made possible through generous funding from the Tata Centre for Technology and Design (TCTD), IIT-Bombay, and the Wadhwani Research Centre for Bioengineering (WRCB).
A Game-Changer in Tinnitus Care
The affordability and portability of the device make it particularly promising for use in underserved areas where access to specialized healthcare is limited. By bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and patient-centric care, the device holds the potential to revolutionize tinnitus management for millions of people worldwide.
This innovation represents a significant step forward in addressing one of the most challenging auditory health conditions, making advanced care accessible to a broader population.
