University of Ottawa Researchers Develop AI for Heart Disease Detection

Scientists at the University of Ottawa announced the integration of AI models into their research on cardiovascular diseases.

The Heart Institute at the University has launched a digital innovation centre. Its primary aim is to expand the use of neural networks and machine learning in diagnosing diseases and patient care.

“This is a place where people with diverse knowledge and experience work together, but the common language is data,” said Jodi Edwards, director of the research program.

The centre comprises offices and laboratories where multidisciplinary teams process data for scientific trials and medical care justification. The project aims to bring together staff from different departments who previously had no opportunity to collaborate.

“The implementation of AI is crucial for our healthcare system, which faces an aging population and a growing shortage of skilled professionals,” Edwards added.

Christopher Sun, chair of the research department, employs Big Data analysis and neural networks to identify patients at the highest risk of cardiac arrest. He also uses AI to study surgical processes to enhance efficiency.

With these new technologies, Sun addresses the shortage of medical workers and optimizes operating room schedules.

According to University staff, the integration of AI ensures necessary treatment for those who need it most.

“Integrating machine learning is a very important step in a resource-constrained medical system,” stated Sun.

In collaboration with McGill University, the digital innovation centre will serve as a portal for combined data on neurology, mental health, and cardiology.

Earlier in February, scientists at the University of California discovered a way to predict Alzheimer’s disease seven years before symptoms appear using AI.