AI Analysis of Mammograms Could Predict Heart Disease

Researchers from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia have published research suggesting that heart disease can be predicted with the use of AI analysis of x-ray mammography. Their study found a correlation between visible calcium build-up in the arteries of the breast and risk of heart attack or stroke.

The study used saved mammograms from 123,762 women with no known history of heart disease at the time of the mammogram. Using AI to analyze the images, they classified the calcification of the arteries as severe, moderate, mild or absent. Women with observed calcification were more likely to develop cardiovascular disease, with their risk rising as the observed calcification worsened.

The goal of the study was to demonstrate that regular mammograms could be used to help diagnose heart disease at no extra cost to the patient.

For more information, head over to EurekAlert.