AI can detect more-than-mild diabetes by scanning and analyzing retina images.

An eye doctor is likely to be the first person to detect diabetes, if only coincidentally, when they find evidence of diabetic retinopathy, a common complication arising from diabetes. However, by the time this is detected, it means the patient has suffered the disease for a long time, and is likely to have other complications such as periodontal disease and foot-and-ankle disease. AI technology goes a step ahead, however. It is even able to detect diabetes from a retina that appears healthy. (HIT Consultant)

How it works

AEYE Health, which has offices in New York and Tel Aviv, is a leader in Ai-based diagnostic screening for retinal diseases.

In February, AEYE reported results from a study to evaluate whether AI software can accurately detect more-than-mild diabetic retinopathy using a single image per eye, obtained from either a desktop or handheld retinal camera.

“To truly revolutionize diagnostic screening for diabetic retinopathy, it is crucial to make the process accessible, affordable and highly accurate,” said Zack Dvey-Aharon, Ph.D., CEO of AEYE Health, at the time. “The ability to accurately detect more-than-mild diabetic retinopathy using just a single image per eye, obtained from either desktop or handheld cameras is the true key to that revolution.”

Moreover, earlier detection of diabetes from apparently healthy retinas implies the disease is at an earlier stage. This provides a window for treatment, avoids the occurrence of complications later, and reduces the number of undiagnosed diabetics.

“Deploying this AI at pharmacies and community clinics can help people test themselves quickly, cheaply and without drawing blood,” says Dr. Zack Dvey-Aharon.

Related Story: AI-Enabled Screening For Diabetic Retinopathy Can Save Patients’ Eyesight