New UCLA AI tool targets Alzheimer's cases often missed in early diagnosis

UCLA researchers are developing an artificial intelligence tool designed to identify individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, which is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S. and often goes undiagnosed in up to 40% of cases. The AI algorithm analyzes patient medical records, including prior diagnoses, age, and neurological indicators, successfully capturing about 80% of undiagnosed Alzheimer's cases—nearly double the accuracy of other models. A key focus of the tool is to reduce health disparities, as Black people and Latinos are more likely to develop Alzheimer's but less likely to receive a diagnosis; the AI is trained to perform fairly across diverse groups. Early diagnosis is crucial because new therapies are available for those identified early, allowing for potential lifestyle changes that could slow the disease's progression.

(Source：ABC7 Los Angeles)