A 2020 champion of the National Science and Mathematics Quiz, Odadeɛ Benjamin Nketsiah, has received international recognition for developing an AI-powered project that detects triple-negative breast cancer.
His innovation, titled “She’s Strong,” earned an award at Michigan State University. Participants in the competition submitted three-minute videos explaining their projects to a panel of judges.
As part of the recognition, Nketsiah received $1,000, which was credited to his tuition account.
The project builds on ongoing efforts to improve early detection and treatment of breast cancer. It focuses on helping patients receive timely care, especially in regions where the disease is highly prevalent.
Speaking after receiving the award, Nketsiah said his work was inspired by the high rate of triple-negative breast cancer in West Africa. He noted that the condition is particularly aggressive and affects a large number of patients in Ghana.
He explained that his research showed that many breast cancer cases in the region fall under this category, making early detection critical.
Following his initial research, he co-founded a non-profit organisation called “She’s Strong.” The group aims to support communities in West Africa by improving awareness and access to early detection tools.
Nketsiah revealed that the team has also developed a software application that is already being used by people in different parts of the world, although expansion efforts are still ongoing.
He said the application uses a clinically verified model known as the Tyrer-Cuzick model to assess risk levels. Based on user responses, it categorises individuals as low, medium, or high risk.
The platform can also store symptoms and connect users with local healthcare professionals for further support and treatment.
According to him, the AI system functions as a patient navigator, providing responses based on advanced models similar to ChatGPT-5. However, he stressed that the tool is not designed to replace doctors and should be used alongside professional medical care.
Nketsiah described the project as his way of giving back to West Africa and said he felt humbled by the recognition.
Triple-negative breast cancer is a fast-growing form of the disease that does not respond to common hormone-based treatments. Because it does not react to therapies targeting estrogen, progesterone, or HER2, it is often more difficult to treat.
Health experts continue to emphasise that early detection remains one of the most effective ways to improve survival rates for patients.
