The NHS is expanding its pioneering use of artificial intelligence (AI) to identify individuals at risk of liver disease earlier than ever before. This innovative programme, initially launched in Somerset, will now be rolled out across the entire South West region, aiming to catch the 'quiet killer' before it progresses.
Key Takeaways
The NHS is expanding an AI-powered liver disease detection programme across the South West of England.
The initiative uses existing blood test data to identify patients at risk.
Early results show a positive response, with hundreds of patients engaged and starting treatment.
Liver disease is common but often overlooked compared to other major health conditions.
AI-Powered Early Detection
The £1.4 million project, spearheaded by Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, has already analysed the blood of 700,000 adults. By examining blood samples for specific markers, the AI system successfully identified approximately 700 patients with potential liver problems. This success has now secured further funding from NHS England to implement the programme regionally.
The 'Quiet Killer'
Liver disease is often referred to as the 'quiet killer' because its symptoms can be subtle or non-existent in the early stages. Peter Ernest, a liver patient from Taunton, shared his experience, highlighting how he was unaware of his condition until a routine check-up revealed a fatty liver. "You don't know you have liver disease unless you have scans or tests," he stated, underscoring the importance of proactive detection.
A Positive Response
Dr. Katie Denver, a clinical research fellow involved in the programme, explained that the AI system utilises blood tests already collected for unrelated reasons. This efficient approach means no additional procedures are required for initial screening. "So far we've written letters to 700 people. From those, hundreds of people have engaged, have been started on treatments. We've had a very positive response," Dr. Denver reported. The trust plans to extend these outreach efforts to more individuals in the South West in the coming months.
Addressing an Overlooked Condition
Dr. Denver emphasised that while heart disease and cancer receive significant public attention, liver disease is equally prevalent and warrants greater awareness. The AI programme aims to bring this often-underestimated condition into sharper focus, ensuring more people receive timely diagnosis and treatment, potentially preventing severe complications.