A groundbreaking artificial intelligence (AI) model, known as Aire, is set to be trialled in NHS hospitals, aiming to predict patients' risk of disease and early death. This innovative technology leverages electrocardiogram (ECG) readings to identify hidden health issues, potentially transforming patient care within the next five years.
Key Takeaways
The AI model, Aire, will be trialled at two NHS trusts in London starting mid-2025.
It uses ECG tests to detect heart issues that may not be visible to doctors.
The technology has shown up to 78% accuracy in predicting a patient’s risk of death within ten years.
The goal is to enhance early intervention and preventative care for patients.
What Is Aire?
Aire, short for AI-ECG risk estimation, is designed to analyse the electrical activity of the heart through standard ECG tests. By interpreting these readings, the AI can uncover structural heart issues that may go unnoticed by medical professionals.
The trials will take place at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust and Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, with plans to expand to additional sites.
The Vision Behind Aire
Dr Fu Siong Ng, a consultant cardiologist at Imperial College, emphasised that the vision for Aire is to integrate it into every ECG performed in hospitals. He stated, "Anyone who has an ECG anywhere in the NHS in five to ten years will be processed through the model, allowing clinicians to receive comprehensive health risk predictions."
This proactive approach aims to enable early interventions, potentially preventing serious health issues before they develop.
How Does It Work?
ECG Testing: Patients undergo a simple and quick ECG test.
Data Analysis: Aire analyses the ECG results to identify patterns and potential risks.
Risk Prediction: The AI provides a risk assessment, indicating the likelihood of future health issues, including:
Heart failure (79% accuracy)
Serious heart rhythm problems (76% accuracy)
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (70% accuracy)
The Role of AI in Healthcare
Dr Arunashis Sau, a clinical research fellow, clarified that Aire is not intended to replace doctors but to enhance their capabilities. He noted, "The goal is to do something that is superhuman, identifying risks that a doctor cannot detect from ECG readings alone."
This technology aims to guide further testing and treatment, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing the risk of severe health complications.
Addressing Rising Health Concerns
The introduction of Aire comes at a critical time, as recent data indicates a concerning rise in premature deaths from cardiovascular issues, particularly among younger adults. Factors such as increasing obesity rates and delayed medical responses have contributed to this trend.
By implementing AI-driven solutions like Aire, the NHS hopes to combat these rising health challenges and provide more effective care to patients.
Conclusion
The trial of the ‘superhuman’ AI death calculator represents a significant advancement in the use of technology within healthcare. With the potential to revolutionise patient care, Aire could pave the way for a future where early detection and intervention become the norm, ultimately saving lives and improving health outcomes across the NHS.
Sources
‘Superhuman’ AI death calculator to be trialled in NHS, The Telegraph.
‘Superhuman’ AI that predicts disease and early death risk to be trialled in NHS, MSN.
NHS to use AI death calculator to tell patients how long they have, MSN.
