In a groundbreaking development, scientists in Australia have unveiled a cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) tool capable of predicting heart health risks for women by analyzing their mammograms.

This innovative tool leverages routine mammogram images—traditionally used for breast cancer diagnoses—along with the patient's age to estimate the likelihood of hospitalization or mortality from heart failure or other cardiac issues over the next decade.

Researchers from renowned Australian universities and The George Institute for Global Health created this AI solution in response to the alarming fact that many women remain unaware of their heart disease risks due to a lack of appropriate screenings.

Cardiovascular diseases account for approximately 35% of female deaths worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for effective preventative measures.

Clare Arnott, global director of The George Institute’s cardiovascular program, emphasized a critical misconception: "Heart disease largely affects men, leading to underdiagnosis and undertreatment in women."

By integrating screenings for both heart disease and breast cancer, this AI tool aims to tackle two major health threats simultaneously, potentially saving countless lives.

Developed using data from over 49,000 women, the study describing this tool was recently published in the journal Heart.

Remarkably, when tested against other models that require detailed patient data—such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels—this AI tool performed equally well, offering a simplified yet highly effective alternative.

Arnott points out that a significant advantage of this model lies in its streamlined approach: "It doesn’t require extensive medical history or documentation, making it less resource-intensive to deploy while maintaining high accuracy."

Dr. Jennifer Barraclough, a study author and researcher at The George Institute, noted that this AI innovation could be vital in regions with limited access to healthcare. She highlighted rural Australia, where mobile mammography units provide free screenings, as a prime example.

"We are excited to demonstrate the promise of this revolutionary screening tool and are eager to explore its effectiveness in diverse populations and identify potential barriers to its widespread implementation," Barraclough added, hinting at a future where women’s heart health might finally take center stage.