Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed an artificial intelligence tool that can assess lung function by analyzing chest X-rays, a breakthrough that could revolutionize how we monitor respiratory health.
Traditionally, doctors use spirometry, which requires patients to blow into a device and follow specific instructions. However, this can be challenging for certain groups, like infants or those with cognitive impairments.
The AI model created by Associate Professor Daiju Ueda and Professor Yukio Miki was trained on a massive dataset of more than 140,000 chest X-rays collected over nearly two decades.
They compared the AI’s predictions with actual spirometry results and found a strong correlation, indicating its ability to accurately estimate lung function without the need for physical exertion from the patient.
This innovation addresses significant challenges in current healthcare practices by offering a non-invasive alternative for assessing pulmonary function. By relying solely on existing chest X-rays, the AI model simplifies the diagnostic process and potentially reduces medical costs associated with more complex tests.
Professor Ueda emphasized the collaborative effort involved in developing this AI model, which included contributions from healthcare professionals, researchers, and patients across various institutions.
He expressed optimism about the tool’s potential to alleviate patient burdens and improve healthcare efficiency by providing accessible and accurate lung function assessments.
