When AI is Used for Good

While Artificial intelligence (AI) has been much criticised for its potential misuses, biases and threats to our jobs, it is also revolutionising the way we approach healthcare and becoming an indispensable tool in addressing some of the most pressing global health challenges. In this post, we'll explore three inspiring examples of how AI is being used for good to decrease infant mortality rates, alleviate the mental health crisis, and help diagnose cancer patients early on.

Image generated with AI

→ Decreasing infant mortality rate in Nigeria

In Nigeria, AI is playing a crucial role in keeping parents on track with their child's vaccination appointments, ultimately contributing to a reduction in infant mortality rates. Health Tech Startup HelpMum developed a vaccination adviser system designed to support mothers, particularly those from low-income backgrounds who may not have easy access to healthcare facilities. The AI system assesses a mother's financial situation and proximity to a clinic. If a mother is low-income and lives far from the clinic, the AI steps in to prevent missed appointments, by triggering alarms for healthcare teams to arrange home visits, providing bus vouchers, or even arranging taxi pickups.

Learn more: Help Mum

→ Alleviating the mental health crisis

In Germany, AI is being harnessed to address the mental health crisis by providing an innovative form of therapy. Psychiatrists introduced AI-powered bot Clare&me as a solution to the stigma often associated with traditional therapy. Studies have indicated that individuals are more willing to open up to AI therapists than to human ones. AI-driven mental health support has the potential to break down barriers, offering support and care to those who need it most, from anywhere and at any time.

Learn more: Clare&Me

→ Helping to diagnose cancer patients early on

In the United Kingdom, the government has pledged £21 million to implement AI solutions across the National Health Service (NHS). This investment aims to provide NHS staff with cutting-edge technology that aids in the early diagnosis of cancer patients. By combining human expertise with AI assistance, diagnostic confidence is significantly improved. AI has the potential to analyse vast amounts of medical data rapidly and accurately, helping medical professionals detect cancer at its earliest stages, which can lead to more successful treatment outcomes.

Learn more: Medical Device Network

Do you want more AI-related good news?

BBC podcast "People fixing the world" has an episode dedicated to this topic