The real test for medical AI is how many people it helps

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) sparks both excitement and concern. While questions about potential job losses and machines operating without human control are valid, the ability of AI to enhance lives is becoming increasingly clear, particularly in medical research and healthcare.

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), several initiatives highlight the transformative potential of AI in healthcare. UK pharma giant AstraZeneca, which heavily relies on AI and other technologies, is pouring $50 million into 30 clinical trials at the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. These trials focus on cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic diseases, as well as exploring AI's role in hypertension diagnosis, clinical trial recruitment, and safety monitoring.

Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi-based tech firm M42 has rolled out Ossi, an AI platform designed to lighten doctors' administrative load, enabling them to spend more time with patients. By summarizing medical histories and aiding in clinical documentation, Ossi could allow doctors to concentrate solely on each patient.

On the research front, American biotech company Insilico Medicine, with scientists based in Masdar City, is leveraging AI to uncover potential treatments for blood cancer and develop a non-opioid pain reliever. While clinical testing is still required to confirm safety and effectiveness, AI's potential to accelerate drug discovery is promising.

Preventive care is also benefiting from AI. The Abu Dhabi Department of Health's Project Cradle is investigating whether wearable smart rings can detect early warning signs of premature birth in high-risk pregnancies. A partnership with US wearable tech company Whoop will examine sleep, cardiovascular health, and ageing patterns. These initiatives aim to anticipate illness, helping people avoid potential complications and expensive treatments later on.

The increasing capabilities of technology extend beyond medicine, with Oracle's latest agentic AI systems handling complex tasks like supply chains, shipping, and restaurant management. However, in healthcare, the stakes are considerably higher. Alongside the promise of AI, digitization brings concerns about privacy and security.

Robust cybersecurity measures must be in place to safeguard sensitive medical data and maintain clinical oversight. Furthermore, accessibility remains a crucial consideration. Health tech innovations should not be limited to affluent patients or those with comprehensive insurance coverage. Governments and insurance providers must ensure equitable access to these advancements, making them available to all, regardless of socioeconomic status or location.

Ultimately, medical progress should not solely be gauged by the speed of drug discovery. Instead, its impact should be measured by how many lives are saved or improved due to these technological breakthroughs, irrespective of the patients' background or location.