AI Research Grants Aim to Revolutionize Cardiovascular Disease Screening and Treatment

Research teams from Kaiser Permanente Division of Research and the University of Michigan have been awarded a combined $10.5 million to investigate how artificial intelligence (AI) can improve the screening and treatment of cardiovascular disease. This funding, provided by the American Heart Association, highlights the critical role of AI in addressing the foremost cause of mortality in the United States, with implications that could extend globally.

The Kaiser Permanente team, under the guidance of Dr. David Ouyang, will concentrate on enhancing the diagnostic potential of echocardiograms through AI. Their goal is to identify early indicators of kidney and liver disease, which are known to increase cardiovascular risks. A clinical trial spanning four healthcare systems will be conducted to perfect the method for notifying physicians about these critical findings.

On the other hand, the University of Michigan's team, led by Dr. Cindy Hsu, is set to create an AI-powered algorithm that works in tandem with a wearable sensor. This innovation is designed to improve the delivery of CPR during cardiac arrests by offering real-time blood pressure monitoring, allowing for adjustments in technique that could enhance survival rates.

These initiatives represent the American Heart Association's dedication to advancing cardiovascular health research. By harnessing the power of AI, the association aims to improve the precision of diagnoses and the effectiveness of treatments. This investment is part of a larger effort to tackle the increasing incidence of cardiovascular, kidney, and liver diseases through cutting-edge technology.