Tue Feb 03 14:26:46 UTC 2026: ### AI Cancer Chatbot “Dr. GEM” Launched in Coimbatore on World Cancer Day

The Story:

GEM Hospital in Coimbatore, India, launched Dr. GEM, an AI-powered cancer chatbot, on February 3, 2026, coinciding with World Cancer Day. The launch featured A. Sivathanu Pillai, former Chief Controller (R&D) of the Defence Research and Development Organisation, and A. Saravana Sundar, Inspector General of Police, West Zone, Coimbatore. Dr. GEM aims to provide accessible information, symptom guidance, screening awareness, and post-treatment support to cancer patients and their families. The event also included the release of a women’s marathon anthem and honored cancer survivors.

Key Points:

  • Dr. GEM is a 24/7 AI cancer care assistant.
  • The chatbot provides information, symptom guidance, screening awareness, and post-treatment support via Whatsapp QR code.
  • A. Sivathanu Pillai emphasized the increasing link between cancer and lifestyle changes and the importance of early detection. He predicted AI’s transformative role in healthcare.
  • A. Saravana Sundar highlighted the social and emotional challenges of cancer and the need to break the stigma surrounding it.
  • GEM Hospital Group Chairman, C. Palani Velu, reinforced the hospital’s commitment to integrating technology with compassionate cancer care.
  • Praveen Raj, CEO of GEM Cancer Centre, stated that the hospital was among the first in the country to introduce an AI assistant exclusively for oncology.

Key Takeaways:

  • AI is increasingly being integrated into healthcare in India, specifically for cancer care.
  • The launch of Dr. GEM highlights a focus on accessible and non-intimidating cancer information.
  • There is a growing emphasis on addressing the social and emotional aspects of cancer, alongside the medical ones.
  • The use of Whatsapp makes the information easily accessible to a wide range of population.

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