The Facts
Researchers have used artificial intelligence (AI) to study the brain's functional connectivity — how well different parts of the brain interact with each other — and how it deteriorates more in certain regions of the world.
The study, which analyzed data from seven countries in Latin America and the Caribbean and eight from other parts of the world, found that brains deteriorate, or age faster, in women, Latin America, and countries with higher inequality.
The Spin
Narrative A
Not only is AI the future of brain medicine, but it has already been used successfully. For example, scientists have been able to detect Alzheimer's up to seven years earlier than usual thanks to AI's inhumanly rapid analyses of patient health records. When you combine that research with emerging research in the environmental and social fields, this technology has the potential to identify every possible cause of premature brain aging.
Narrative B
Even as more studies prove AI's effectiveness in healthcare, there remains the issue of underutilization. Reasons for this include budgeting, low investments, and lack of technical training for healthcare staff. Doctors may also fear using AI due to potential legal consequences should it harm their patients. Hospitals, investors, and regulators should work to solve these issues so the industry has the necessary knowledge, funding, and freedom to expand AI's use in healthcare.
