Healthy Eyes through AI

Google is partnering with ophthalmologists in India to use an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm to improve diabetes care and prevent vision loss by increasing the speed and accessibility of the diagnostic process. AI has already been validated as a screening tool for diabetes-related vision complications such as diabetic retinopathy (DR) in the US, and this project is investigating whether similar technology could be used in India to improve patient care and diabetes management.

Why is DR a growing concern?

People are living longer with diabetes, and with longer duration of the disease comes the increased likelihood of damage to blood vessels and nerves from long-term high blood glucose levels. This damage can be observed throughout the body, including the eyes.   

Fortunately, vision loss is preventable with early diagnosis of DR, followed by timely treatment and improved diabetes management (i.e. healthy diet, physical activity, and maintenance of blood pressure). To learn more the prevention of diabetes complications and whether new diagnostic technologies are effective, contact Prof. Dr. Hans-Peter Hammes, a world-renowned leader in endocrinological research.

What is AI?

The innovation and technology space is notorious for its use of jargon – so what does it all actually mean? According to ScienceDaily, AI refers to ‘"the study and design of intelligent agents" where an intelligent agent is a system that perceives its environment and takes actions which maximizes its chances of success.’ Basically, AI is any machine that can learn and problem solve.

How else can AI help improve functional ability and healthy ageing at the population level? Get an expert perspective from Prof. Suzanne Martin, a Professor of Occupational Therapy from Belfast, Northern Ireland whose research focus is on new and emerging technologies in health and social care.