AI-Driven Tool to Predict Dementia Risk Using Brain Scans

A groundbreaking initiative in Scotland aims to harness artificial intelligence (AI) to predict dementia risk from brain scans. A team of 20 data scientists and clinical researchers from the Universities of Edinburgh and Dundee is spearheading this effort, leveraging a vast dataset of CT and MRI brain scans collected from Scottish patients between 2008 and 2018. This dataset, encompassing 1.6 million images, has been approved for research use by the Public Benefit and Privacy Panel for Health and Social Care, part of NHS Scotland.

The project, known as Scottish AI in Neuroimaging to predict Dementia and Neurodegenerative Disease (SCAN-DAN), will utilize AI and machine learning to analyze the brain scans alongside anonymized health records. By identifying patterns linked to dementia, the team hopes to create a digital tool that radiologists can use to assess a patient’s dementia risk during routine scans. This could also facilitate the early diagnosis of conditions like Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia.

The research is conducted within the secure environment of the Scottish National Safe Haven, commissioned by Public Health Scotland. SCAN-DAN is one of three pathfinder projects launched by NEURii, a global collaboration that includes prominent partners like Eisai, Gates Ventures, and the University of Edinburgh. NEURii’s mission is to advance digital health tools that improve the quality of life for those living with dementia. Through this collaboration, the SCAN-DAN project receives the funding and expertise necessary to overcome challenges in bringing such innovations to market.

Source: University of Edinburgh

Tags: artificial intelligence, brain, brain scans, dementia, featured

Category: Features, Technology & Devices