Catching low bone density patients before they fracture
Rho™: An AI-based software to enable early and opportunistic screening for osteoporosis from conventional x-ray
PROJECT METRICS
The Challenge
Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and increases fracture risk, often goes undiagnosed until it causes serious injury. The standard method of diagnosis, DEXA scans, are effective but underutilized due to limited awareness, access, and eligibility criteria. Many patients, particularly younger individuals or those who don’t meet current screening guidelines, may never be tested, even though they are at risk. As a result, osteoporosis can silently progress, leading to debilitating fractures that significantly impact quality of life and burden healthcare systems.
The Solution – INOVAIT Project
To address this gap, 16 Bit developed Rho, an AI-powered screening tool that identifies low-bone density using standard X-rays patients receive for other medical reasons. Co-founded by radiologists Dr. Mark Cicero and Dr. Alexander Bilbily, 16 Bit trained Rho by pairing tens of thousands of X-rays with corresponding DEXA results, allowing the AI to detect subtle patterns in bone health that humans cannot perceive. Rho now achieves a greater than 90% positive predictive value in identifying low bone density and identifies a large proportion of patients who may benefit from therapy. Unlike DEXA, Rho can be passively integrated into existing imaging workflows, expanding reach and reducing missed diagnoses. With support from INOVAIT, 16 Bit has integrated Rho into clinical systems, expanded its feature set, and validated its cost-effectiveness. Long term, the company aims to demonstrate that Rho reduces fracture-related healthcare costs eventually making the case for public funding. By enabling earlier, broader, and smarter screening, Rho is poised to transform preventive care globally.
Funding Type: Focus Fund
Year of Funding: 2022
INOVAIT Funding Amount: $1,989,804.17
Total Project Funding Amount: $5,969,412.50
16 Bit
16 Bit is a Toronto-based healthtech company pioneering the use of artificial intelligence to enhance diagnostic imaging and preventative care. Founded by radiologists Dr. Mark Cicero and Dr. Alexander Bilbily, 16 Bit develops AI tools that integrate seamlessly into clinical workflows to uncover hidden insights in medical images. Their flagship product, Rho, uses machine learning to analyze standard X-rays and predict who is at risk for low bone mineral density. By leveraging existing imaging data, 16 Bit is expanding access to life-changing diagnoses while reducing the cost burden on healthcare systems.
"The INOVAIT funding programs have really helped level the playing field and has made building a company in Canada a competitive advantage on the global stage. "
Mark Cicero
Co-CEO
16 Bit