Oxford Researchers Develop AI That can Identify the Likelihood of Suffering a Heart Attack up to 10 Years in the Future

Oxford Researchers Develop AI That Can Identify the Likelihood of Suffering a Heart Attack up to 10 Years in the Future

Researchers at Oxford University have developed a groundbreaking artificial intelligence (AI) system that can identify individuals at high risk of suffering a heart attack up to 10 years in the future. The technology analyzes data from routine CT scans to detect hidden signs of inflammation and plaque buildup in the coronary arteries, which are often missed by traditional scan analysis.


The AI system was trained on data from 40,000 patients at UK hospitals and has shown promising results in clinical trials. It has the potential to save thousands of lives annually by enabling early intervention with preventative treatments like statins and anti-inflammatory drugs for those identified as high-risk.


The research team, led by Professor Charalambos Antoniades, found that in 45% of cases, clinicians changed a patient's treatment plan after receiving the AI-enhanced risk assessment. The technology is currently being evaluated by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for potential nationwide rollout in the UK's National Health Service (NHS).


Beyond heart disease, the researchers are also working on applying similar AI techniques to predict stroke risk and identify individuals at risk for conditions like diabetes.


If approved, this innovative AI system could revolutionise preventative care for cardiovascular diseases, which are a leading cause of death worldwide. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to uncover hidden risk factors, healthcare providers could intervene earlier and potentially save countless lives.

European Commission Unveils AI Innovation Package to Boost Startups and SMEs

The European Commission has taken a step forward in fostering innovation within the artificial intelligence (AI) sector. A comprehensive package aimed at supporting AI startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has been launched, signaling the EU's commitment to becoming a global leader in ethical and sustainable AI development.

This initiative is designed to provide the essential tools and resources needed by emerging AI ventures to navigate the complex landscape of technology innovation. By offering access to funding, research resources, and regulatory guidance, the Commission aims to create a fertile environment for AI-related ideas to flourish and compete on a global stage.

Central to this initiative is the establishment of a collaborative network that connects AI startups and SMEs with established research institutions and innovation hubs. This network is expected to foster knowledge exchange, enhance technical capabilities, and stimulate collaborative projects that could lead to breakthroughs in AI technology.

Moreover, the package includes specific measures to ensure that AI development aligns with European values of ethical standards and human-centric design. By prioritizing these principles, the EU seeks to differentiate its AI sector as one that not only excels in innovation but also in responsible and sustainable practices.

The Commission's announcement has been met with enthusiasm from the technology community, with many viewing it as a crucial step towards leveling the playing field for smaller entities competing with tech giants. This move is also seen as a strategic effort to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and address societal challenges through the application of AI.

The AI innovation package is more than just a funding initiative; it is a comprehensive strategy aimed at nurturing an ecosystem where ethical AI can thrive, ensuring Europe remains at the forefront of technological advancement while safeguarding its social and ethical standards.

As the EU charts this ambitious path, the global AI community watches closely, anticipating the emergence of novel AI solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also ethically grounded and socially responsible.

Sources: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_24_383