Fixing Death: The Potential of AI in Healthcare
“You know how they say there are two certainties in life, right? Death and taxes. Can’t we get rid of one of those?”
Life expectancy has significantly increased from 45 years a hundred years ago to almost 80 today. This leap forward is thanks to healthcare advancements, eradicating epidemics and improving our overall well-being. Yet, life remains fragile, with people still succumbing to conditions that could, one day, be curable.
This article explores how AI and machine learning are changing the narrative around some of the most challenging health conditions, from combating blindness to aiding communication for those with neurological diseases.
Communication and ALS
Tim Shaw, a former NFL player diagnosed with ALS, known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, faced a new reality where communicating with his loved ones became a day-to-day challenge. His story introduces us to Project Euphonia, a Google initiative aiming to improve speech recognition for people with medical conditions and ultimately give them their voice back.
Preventing Blindness with AI
In places like India, diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness, exacerbated by a lack of accessible healthcare and specialists. Google’s machine learning algorithm offers a ray of hope, providing real-time diagnosis and treatment possibilities, fundamentally changing patient outcomes and preventing blindness.
The Future of AI in Healthcare
From giving voice to the voiceless to saving sight, AI’s potential in healthcare is just beginning to unfold. The advancements in diagnosing and treating conditions that were once thought untreatable are paving the way for a future where healthcare is more accessible, personalized, and effective.
AI is not just about automating tasks but augmenting human capabilities and enhancing the quality of life. As we stand on the brink of significant healthcare transformations, it’s clear that AI will play a pivotal role in shaping our approach to health and disease, making the impossible possible.
“Try to see the good and the blessing of every day. You’re here with us today. It’s going to be a good day.”