Artificial Intelligence Tool Helps Tailor Diabetes Treatment
AI tool developed to assist diabetes patients in Bradford. Collaboration between Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and University of York. Focus on personalised treatment plans to prevent complications.
With one of the highest diabetes rates in the UK, the Bradford and Craven district, topping the list in Yorkshire and the Humber, is benefiting from this innovative technology.
Developed through a collaboration between Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of York, the AI model is designed to aid clinicians in devising personalised treatment plans, including specific diets and exercise routines tailored to individual patients. This tool plays a crucial role in identifying individuals at risk of complications related to type 2 diabetes, such as high blood pressure and heart attacks, enabling healthcare professionals to provide precise care.
Researchers are optimistic about the AI system's potential to yield significant positive outcomes, particularly for patients of South Asian heritage. The tool's ability to predict and prevent complications associated with diabetes is a significant step towards improving the quality of care for individuals in this community.
Prof Tom Lawton, head of clinical AI at Bradford Teaching Hospitals, highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and treatment in enhancing outcomes for diabetes patients. He emphasised the transformative impact of AI in delivering personalised care but stressed the need for thorough consideration of safety and ethical aspects before its widespread implementation.
The research underscores the critical role of timely interventions in addressing the challenges faced by individuals with diabetes, particularly those from the South Asian community. Despite lower diabetes rates on the outskirts, the central area of Bradford, with a significant South Asian population, records the highest prevalence of diabetes in the country.
Studies conducted by the British Heart Foundation reveal that individuals of South Asian descent face a nearly twofold higher risk of diabetes across all age groups, even after adjusting for risk factors. Notably, South Asian men are at the highest risk, while white European women have the lowest risk. Additionally, South Asian women exhibit a risk level comparable to that of white European men.
AI tool developed to assist diabetes patients in Bradford
Collaboration between Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and University of York
Focus on personalised treatment plans to prevent complications
Source: BBC