AI study could detect early heart valve disease

The sounds of thousands of heartbeats are being collected for a study led by the University of Cambridge and Royal Papworth Hospital in the hope that artificial intelligence will be able to diagnose heart valve disease earlier.

 

Valvular heart disease (VHD) affects nearly two million people in the UK and this figure is expected to double by 2040.  Around half of those affected are unaware of their condition, as symptoms often do not develop until the disease has become severe.

 

The study is collating the sounds of healthy and unhealthy hearts.

 

The clinical study is aimed at creating a first-of-its-kind screening tool which could be used to diagnose valve disease before symptoms emerge.

 

Since the inception, over 1,200 patients with suspected heart valve disease or congenital heart disease have signed up to the study across five hospital sites.

 

Andrew McDonald, of the University of Cambridge’s engineering department, which is developing the app, said the software “compares the sound of a heartbeat against those of a health heart and produces a diagnosis.

 

“Using a stethoscope requires a lot of skill and experience, so it’s traditionally only used by GPs.

 

“We’re hoping that our device can be a really accessible screening tool that can be used by practice nurses, pharmacists or any healthcare professional without the need for specialist training.”

 

Chadwick Lawrence’s specialist team of clinical negligence lawyers have years of experience in medical negligence claims, providing support and guidance after life-changing events.  Not only do we represent clients in Yorkshire, but because of our reputation we also represent clients nationally.

 

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Posted by Karen Motley, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (tonymay@chadlaw.co.uk ), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

 

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