Daniel José Piñeiro
President of the World Heart Federation and Professor of Medicine at the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina
Artificial intelligence (AI) used to sound like a distant concept, a pastime of computer tinkerers; today, AI feels like a real companion. So can it improve healthcare equitably?
Artificial intelligence (AI) offers hope in combating heart conditions, which claim over 20 million lives annually. By rapidly identifying seemingly innocuous symptoms that could indicate a serious condition, such as nausea or muscle aches, AI can help distinguish potential cardiovascular issues like arterial blockages or irregular heart rhythms.
How AI improves heart care
Detection and management tools such as the echocardiogram, EKG, pacemaker, wearable devices for heart rhythm monitoring and implantable cardioversion devices will improve with increasing precision, facilitated by AI. We are seeing AI used to diagnose and monitor at-risk patients, determining patterns and predicting probabilities.
AI can enhance the interpretation of medical imaging, enabling quicker and more accurate diagnosis. One example is the use of algorithms to analyse data that would pinpoint rare heart diseases such as cardiac amyloidosis. In some places, robotic-assisted interventions are guiding stent placement in patients.
Preventing development of heart conditions
Prevention of risk is the best first line of defence against disease. Awareness is increasing about straightforward lifestyle measures: curbing intake of sugar and processed foods, stopping smoking, reducing harmful use of alcohol, staying active and monitoring blood pressure. AI tools can support positive health outcomes, tracking risk management and encouraging adherence to treatment.
AI can enhance the interpretation of medical imaging, enabling quicker and more accurate diagnosis.
Alongside AI advancements, we must bolster infrastructure and policy frameworks to strengthen patient and caregiver education, promote screening, open access to affordable medication and ensure Universal Health Coverage.
AI equity and data handling
Data collection drives the development of algorithms that underpin AI. To ensure AI tools benefit low to middle-income countries (LMICs), it is crucial to obtain high-quality data
that accurately reflects these countries’ unique contexts and challenges. Sharper AI tools in one place contribute to global efforts for high-performing AI that benefits everyone.
Protecting data and ensuring patient privacy are crucial. Regulations and protocols, such as those detailed by WHO, will help create trust in appropriate data use. This includes addressing privacy and data protection in the design and development of systems.
If we can teach machines, surely, we can overcome health challenges, making the best of all worlds — AI, prevention, equity, privacy protection — and ensuring access for everyone.
