This dick pic-powered app from Singapore can scan users for potential STDs

AI-powered platform HeHealth has launched an app that can detect whether users have sexually transmitted diseases (STD) with just a dick pic.

Photo credit: HeHealth

HeHealth uses a neural network AI model that can identify rare conditions like penile cancer and detect potential STDs almost instantly through a digital image. Given the sensitivity of this screening, the startup has taken steps to protect users’ privacy.

For instance, the app does not require users to provide their name, phone number, email, address, or any other personal information. It also encrypts data via keys managed by Amazon Web Services.

In addition, HeHealth will soon offer telehealth services that will allow users to connect anonymously with doctors.

Yudara Kularathne, co-founder and CEO of HeHealth, said the firm’s goal is to make STD screening easy, comfortable, and efficient. He noted that the stigma surrounding STDs often drives people to opt for methods such as crowd diagnosis, which is perceived to be discreet but is also inaccurate and unreliable.

Kularathne added that misinformation can cause delays in testing and treatment or even push STD patients skip necessary healthcare.

The HeHealth mobile app / Photo credit: HeHealth

The company claims that its AI outperforms primary-care physicians in some more challenging disease cases and has a 90% accuracy  rate for HPV screening. The new app, which was live-tested 18 months ahead of launch, has run over 1,000 AI analyses that have been verified by doctors.

Established in 2021, HeHealth is part of the Singapore Management University’s BIG Incubator program. To improve the accuracy and develop its AI, the startup works with the National University Singapore’s (NUS) research committee.

HeHealth is awaiting approvals from Singapore’s Health Science Authority and the NUS to commence stage 2 of clinical trials to review the company’s biomedical research.

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