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AI boosts breast cancer detection in routine scans, landmark trial shows

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Artificial intelligence can significantly improve the detection of breast cancer during routine screening, according to findings from a world-first clinical trial released on Friday. The results point to AI as a potential solution to both diagnostic gaps and rising workload pressures faced by radiologists globally. Published in The Lancet, the study is the first completed randomised controlled trial to rigorously evaluate AI-assisted breast cancer screening. Conducted in Sweden, the trial followed more than 100,000 women who underwent routine mammography in 2021 and 2022. Participants were randomly divided into two groups. One group had their scans reviewed by a single radiologist supported by an AI system, while the other followed the standard European protocol of double reading by two radiologists. The outcomes showed that the AI-assisted approach identified 9% more cancer cases than the conventional method. Importantly, over a two-year follow-up period, women in the AI-supported group had a 12% lower incidence of “interval cancers” — cancers detected between regular screening rounds, which are often more aggressive. The benefits were consistent across age groups and breast density levels, and the rate of false positives remained comparable between both groups. Kristina Lang, senior author of the study and a researcher at Lund University, said the findings indicate that large-scale adoption of AI-supported mammography could ease staffing pressures in radiology departments while improving early cancer detection. However, she emphasised that any rollout must be done carefully, with ongoing evaluation and oversight. Experts cautioned that AI should complement, not replace, human expertise. Jean-Philippe Masson, head of the French National Federation of Radiologists, noted that radiologists must validate AI-generated findings, as the technology can sometimes flag benign tissue changes as cancer. He also pointed out that high costs and concerns around overdiagnosis have slowed AI adoption in countries like France. Stephen Duffy, emeritus professor of cancer screening at Queen Mary University of London, who was not involved in the research, said the trial adds to growing evidence that AI-assisted screening is safe. However, he flagged that the reduction in interval cancers was not statistically significant and called for longer follow-up to assess whether outcomes between the two groups eventually converge. Earlier interim results from the trial, published in 2023, showed that AI nearly halved the time radiologists spent reviewing mammograms. The AI system used in the study, Transpara, was trained on over 200,000 mammography exams from 10 countries. Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, more than 2.3 million women were diagnosed with the disease and around 670,000 died from it in 2022. Source: PTI

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Wearable Health Tech: How Smart Devices Are Changing Preventive Care

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Preventive healthcare is undergoing a quiet but powerful transformation, driven by the rapid rise of wearable health technology. Devices that were once seen as simple fitness accessories have evolved into sophisticated health companions capable of tracking vital signs, detecting early warning signals, and encouraging healthier lifestyles. As healthcare shifts from treating illness to preventing it, wearable technology is playing a central role in empowering individuals and supporting more proactive, data-driven care. The Shift from Fitness Tracking to Health Monitoring Wearable health devices initially gained popularity for tracking steps, calories burned, and workout routines. Over time, advances in sensor technology, data analytics, and connectivity have expanded their capabilities far beyond fitness. Today’s smartwatches, rings, patches, and bands can monitor heart rate, heart rhythm, blood oxygen levels, sleep quality, physical activity, and stress levels throughout the day. This evolution has made wearables relevant not just to fitness enthusiasts but also to individuals managing chronic conditions, older adults focused on healthy ageing, and people seeking to improve overall well-being. Wearables now serve as everyday health monitors rather than occasional wellness tools. Continuous Monitoring and Real-Time Insights One of the most significant advantages of wearable health technology is continuous monitoring. Traditional healthcare relies on periodic checkups that capture health data at a single point in time. Wearables, by contrast, collect information around the clock, offering a more complete picture of how the body responds to daily activities, stress, sleep, and lifestyle choices. By identifying patterns and deviations from normal ranges, wearables can highlight early signs of potential health concerns. Subtle changes in heart rate, sleep quality, or oxygen levels may signal fatigue, infection, or cardiovascular stress before noticeable symptoms appear. This constant flow of information enables timely action and encourages preventive care rather than delayed treatment. Early Detection and Timely Intervention Wearable devices are increasingly capable of detecting early warning signs of health issues. Some smart devices can identify irregular heart rhythms, unusually high or low heart rates, or abnormal sleep patterns. Alerts prompt users to seek medical advice, adjust daily habits, or monitor symptoms more closely. Early detection can be life-saving, particularly for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and sleep disorders. When issues are identified at an early stage, interventions are often simpler, less costly, and more effective. Wearables thus act as an early warning system, helping individuals respond before problems escalate. Encouraging Healthier Behaviors Beyond monitoring, wearable health technology plays a powerful role in behavior change. By translating complex health data into simple insights, reminders, and goals, wearables motivate users to take charge of their health. Daily step targets, activity reminders, sleep scores, and stress-management prompts encourage small but consistent lifestyle improvements. This ongoing feedback helps users develop greater awareness of how their habits affect their health. Over time, these insights can lead to sustained changes such as improved physical activity, better sleep routines, healthier eating habits, and more effective stress management. Supporting Chronic Disease Management For individuals living with chronic conditions, wearable technology offers continuous support and reassurance. Devices can help track vital parameters relevant to conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Instead of relying solely on occasional measurements, users gain ongoing visibility into how their bodies respond to medication, diet, and activity. This continuous data can improve self-management and support informed discussions with healthcare providers. It also reduces dependence on frequent hospital visits, making care more convenient and accessible, especially for those with limited mobility or access to healthcare facilities. Integration with Digital Healthcare Wearable health tech is increasingly being integrated with digital healthcare systems. Data collected by devices can be shared with healthcare professionals through mobile apps, teleconsultation platforms, or electronic health records. This connectivity allows doctors to monitor patients remotely, identify risks early, and provide personalized guidance without the need for constant in-person visits. Such integration is particularly valuable in preventive care, where early insights and timely advice can prevent complications. It also supports healthcare systems by reducing the burden on hospitals and clinics while improving patient outcomes. Challenges and Ethical Considerations Despite their benefits, wearable health devices also raise important challenges. Data privacy and security are major concerns, as wearables collect sensitive personal health information. Ensuring that this data is protected and used responsibly is critical to maintaining trust. Accuracy is another consideration. While wearable devices provide valuable insights, they are not a replacement for professional medical diagnosis. Clear communication about their limitations, along with continued improvements in sensor reliability and regulation, is essential. The Future of Preventive Care As technology continues to advance, wearable health devices are expected to become even more intelligent and personalized. Artificial intelligence and advanced analytics will enable more accurate predictions, personalized recommendations, and early detection of complex health conditions. Future wearables may monitor a wider range of biological markers, further strengthening their role in preventive care. Conclusion Wearable health technology is redefining how preventive care is delivered and experienced. By enabling continuous monitoring, early detection, personalized insights, and better engagement with health data, smart devices are shifting healthcare from a reactive model to a proactive one. As wearables become more integrated into daily life and healthcare systems, they hold the potential to improve long-term health outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and empower individuals to take control of their well-being.  

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The Changing Face of Health: Why Prevention Matters More Than Cure

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Health is no longer just about curing illnesses — it is about building resilience, balance, and longevity. In an age where medical technology is advancing rapidly, one truth stands out: most health challenges of today can be prevented through timely lifestyle choices. From Reactive to Proactive Healthcare Traditionally, healthcare systems have been reactive, stepping in only after illness occurs. But the global rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) — such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disorders, and cancers — is changing that mindset. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), NCDs account for over 70% of global deaths each year, many of which are linked to modifiable factors like poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and stress. Preventive healthcare focuses on early detection, timely intervention, and healthy living habits. Regular health check-ups, vaccinations, screenings, and wellness programs can significantly reduce the burden of disease, not just on individuals but also on healthcare systems. The Mind-Body Connection Health is multidimensional. Beyond physical well-being, mental health is increasingly recognized as a key factor. Stress, depression, and anxiety often manifest in the body as fatigue, poor immunity, or even chronic illness. For example, long-term stress can contribute to hypertension and heart disease. To counter this, practices like yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, and mindfulness are gaining popularity worldwide. Social support systems — family, friends, and community engagement — also play a powerful role in maintaining mental wellness. Nutrition and Lifestyle: The Foundation of Good Health The saying “we are what we eat” has never been truer. Diets rich in whole foods, fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats are proven to reduce the risk of lifestyle-related conditions. On the other hand, excessive consumption of processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats is directly linked to obesity and metabolic disorders. Equally important is physical activity. Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, which could be as simple as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. Combined with quality sleep and adequate hydration, these habits form the foundation of long-term health. Technology: A Game-Changer in Healthcare Digital health tools are reshaping the way people monitor and manage their well-being. Wearable devices can track heart rate, sleep quality, and physical activity, while telemedicine platforms make healthcare accessible from home. Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used to detect early signs of diseases through scans and lab data, helping doctors make faster and more accurate diagnoses. This patient-centric approach empowers individuals to take control of their health, reducing dependency on hospitals for routine care. Community and Policy Initiatives Health is not just personal — it is social. Governments, workplaces, and schools are increasingly adopting wellness programs, from fitness incentives to mental health counseling. Public awareness campaigns on vaccination, hygiene, and balanced diets continue to play a pivotal role in improving community health standards. Policies that encourage pollution control, clean water, urban green spaces, and accessible healthcare facilities further strengthen the foundation of healthier societies. Building a Healthier Future The future of healthcare lies in a holistic model — where physical, mental, social, and environmental health are interconnected. Instead of waiting for illness to strike, people and systems must embrace prevention as the core of well-being. By making conscious choices — nutritious eating, regular exercise, stress management, technology-driven monitoring, and preventive check-ups — individuals can not only add years to life but also life to years. As the adage goes, “Health is wealth.” In the 21st century, that wealth depends on how well we balance innovation, awareness, and proactive living.

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NeueHealth to Be Acquired by NEA Affiliate in $1.3 Billion Deal

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NeueHealth, a leading company in value-based care solutions that connects providers and payers through technology, has entered a definitive merger agreement to be acquired by an affiliate of New Enterprise Associates (NEA). The deal, valued at $1.3 billion, will transition NeueHealth into a privately held company. As part of the agreement, common stockholders of NeueHealth will receive $7.33 per share in cash—a 70% premium over the closing price of the company’s stock as of December 23. Additionally, 12 existing NeueHealth investors, along with NEA, have agreed to rollover agreements, exchanging their existing shares for equity in the newly privatized entity. The company’s current secured loan facility with Hercules Capital will remain intact, ensuring continuity in financial operations. NeueHealth’s executive leadership team will retain their roles post-merger, with the leadership rolling over their equity interests into the private company. Subject to stockholder and regulatory approvals, the merger is anticipated to enhance NeueHealth’s market position while delivering strong returns to its public stockholders. Mike Mikan, President and CEO of NeueHealth, commented on the development: “We are pleased to announce this transaction as we believe it places NeueHealth in a strong position for continued growth while maximizing value for all of NeueHealth’s public stockholders. NEA has been a longstanding strategic partner, and we look forward to continuing to work together to build on NeueHealth’s success as a leader in value-based care.” THE LARGER TREND NeueHealth has made significant strides in recent years. In 2024, it acquired the remaining 25% equity interest in Centrum Health, solidifying its ownership of the value-driven clinic brand. The company also secured a $150 million loan facility from Hercules Capital to bolster its operational priorities. Last year, Bright Health Group adopted NeueHealth as its corporate brand name, emphasizing its focus on value-based care solutions. NeueHealth’s common stock began trading under the ticker symbol NEUE on the NYSE, showcasing its growing prominence in the healthcare sector. This merger with NEA is expected to propel NeueHealth toward further growth and innovation, reinforcing its leadership in value-based care. Source: mobihealthnews Photo Credit: mobihealthnews

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AI Early Detection System Prevents Strokes by Identifying Atrial Fibrillation

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News on Health

Researchers have harnessed the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to identify irregular cardiac rhythms in individuals who have not yet exhibited symptoms. This AI system, which detected hidden signals in routine medical diagnostic tests, offers a promising avenue for doctors to proactively prevent strokes and other cardiovascular problems in individuals with atrial fibrillation, the most common type of heart rhythm disorder. While previous algorithms were predominantly tested on a narrow demographic, this new AI algorithm demonstrates effectiveness across various situations and patient populations, including veterans and underserved communities in the United States. The groundbreaking findings have been published in JAMA Cardiology, a reputable peer-reviewed journal. Dr. David Ouyang, a cardiologist at Cedars-Sinai’s Smidt Heart Institute and a researcher in the Division of Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, is the senior author of this study. He emphasizes the significance of this research in identifying concealed heart conditions and promoting the development of equitable and universally applicable algorithms for all patients. According to experts, approximately one in three people with atrial fibrillation remains undiagnosed. In this condition, the heart’s electrical signals, responsible for orchestrating the flow of blood from the upper chambers to the lower chambers, become chaotic. This can result in blood pooling in the upper chambers, leading to the formation of blood clots that may travel to the brain and trigger an ischemic stroke. The core of this groundbreaking discovery lies in an AI algorithm that was trained to recognize patterns within electrocardiogram (ECG) readings. ECG is a diagnostic test that monitors the heart’s electrical activity, typically involving the placement of electrodes on a patient’s body to capture these signals. By analyzing nearly one million ECGs, the AI model was not only able to accurately predict the onset of atrial fibrillation within 31 days but also demonstrated its effectiveness when applied to medical records of patients at Cedars-Sinai. Dr. Sumeet Chugh, the director of the Division of Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and the medical director of the Heart Rhythm Center at the Department of Cardiology, highlights the study’s geographic and ethnic diversity in its sample of veterans. This diversity underscores the potential of this algorithm to benefit a broad spectrum of the U.S. population. The research is a testament to the innovative ways in which AI is being harnessed at the Smidt Heart Institute and the Division of Artificial Intelligence in Medicine to proactively manage complex and challenging cardiac conditions.

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