EDAN Launches AI-enabled Handheld Ultrasound to Expand Prenatal Screening Access in Africa

China-based EDAN Instruments has unveiled Nano OB Assist, an AI-enabled handheld ultrasound system designed to improve access to prenatal screening in low-resource settings, at an event in Nairobi attended by healthcare professionals, government representatives, and non-governmental organizations.

Nano OB Assist incorporates AI-enabled blind sweep technology, allowing healthcare providers to capture ultrasound data with reduced reliance on advanced training. It is designed to automate image analysis and provide key clinical information, including gestational age, fetal presentation, and estimated delivery date, supporting frontline caregivers in primary and community care settings.

EDAN Nano OB Assist received CE marking on March 18, 2026, indicating compliance with European Union safety and performance requirements. The company positions the system as a tool to help address limited access to ultrasound in regions where trained sonographers and imaging infrastructure are scarce. EDAN also highlighted its ongoing commitment to healthcare development in Africa through its Kenya office, which supports local partnerships, clinical training, and product implementation across the region.

“Access to ultrasound remains a critical gap in many parts of the world,” said Lucas Lau, Product Manager of Ultrasound Imaging at EDAN. According to the World Health Organization, many pregnancy- and childbirth-related complications remain preventable, but access to essential diagnostic tools such as ultrasound remains limited in parts of Africa.

Clinical perspectives highlighted the potential impact of simplified imaging workflows. “In many settings, access to ultrasound remains limited, particularly at the primary and community care level,” said Dr. Philip Ilara of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital. “Technologies like Nano OB Assist, which simplify the scanning process and provide guided support, have the potential to help more healthcare providers perform essential assessments and improve early detection in maternal care.”