Pioneering AI-powered solutions in emerging markets

In emerging markets, where the burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) is highest and patient outcomes are greatly affected by healthcare inequality, artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly offering scalable, affordable, and impactful solutions. Our Head of Commercial Digital and IT, International and Japan, Nick Passey, recently shared his expert opinion on this topic and a version of this article has been published as a World Economic Forum Agenda article.

The intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and healthcare holds immense promise, particularly in addressing some of the most complex challenges and barriers to healthcare access faced by emerging markets. AI is fast becoming a transformative force reshaping how we diagnose and treat diseases¹ and is playing a pivotal role in overcoming healthcare disparities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).² It has the power to revolutionise patient outcomes and bring equitable care to millions of people who currently face significant barriers to healthcare.³

A lifeline for emerging markets

In emerging markets, where healthcare resources are often scarce and inaccessible, AI offers scalable and, crucially, affordable solutions. By leveraging digital innovations, AI transcends geographical barriers and extends quality healthcare services to underserved populations, ensuring equitable access to medical expertise and resources, regardless of location or socioeconomic status.

AI also enables the analysis and interpretation of vast amounts of medical data, allowing for early disease detection and personalised treatment plans.⁴ This capability is especially critical in LMICs where healthcare systems grapple with the burden of an ageing population and the surge of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).⁵ By identifying diseases in their nascent stages, AI empowers healthcare professionals to intervene proactively, ultimately leading to improved long-term patient outcomes while reducing the load on healthcare systems.

How technology is transforming patient outcomes in Africa

Africa faces a multitude of healthcare challenges that are complex and multifaceted, shaped by a combination of socio-economic, environmental, and political factors. Despite notable progress in certain areas, such as reducing infectious diseases and improving life expectancy, the continent continues to struggle with persistent health disparities and burdens.⁶

AI has the potential to transform patient outcomes across Africa through cost-effective and adaptable solutions, two critical aspects for emerging markets. At AstraZeneca, we are working to provide such solutions through the A.Catalyst Network (A.CN) Africa Hub, a dynamic health innovation hub made up of unique partnerships with the goal of improving patient experiences and outcomes across the continent and beyond, through digital transformation using the latest technology.

Other critical projects include working with the Kenya Cardiac Society on a collaborative project that explores how applying AI to ECGs can identify heart failure risk and partnering with Medsol AI Solutions in Pretoria for early breast cancer screening. As part of that partnership, this year we have activated four additional sites for breast cancer screening across South Africa, extending our collaboration with hospitals and clinics in both urban communities and rural areas so collectively we can reach more people.

In Africa, breast cancer mortality-to-incidence ratios remain significantly higher compared to other regions, largely due to challenges such as inadequate infrastructure in rural areas.⁹ Our collaboration with Medsol AI Solutions has led to the development of Melusi Breast AI - a cutting-edge, Wi-Fi-enabled ultrasound probe designed for rapid breast cancer detection. This innovative technology leverages AI algorithms to analyse medical imaging data swiftly, enabling healthcare professionals to identify and diagnose breast cancer at its earliest stages. The accompanying rapid diagnosis app facilitates quicker therapeutic interventions, while our screening and referral program aims to reduce time to treatment from over six months to just two weeks.

This portable and state-of-the-art solution allows us to extend screening services to regions with limited healthcare infrastructure, particularly isolated rural areas lacking internet access.

We have seen similar success with Tricog Health, whom we partner with in Kenya, in reducing mortality rates with AI remote cardiac diagnosis. Their InstaECG AI tools provide rapid diagnosis, taking the time to detection down to just three minutes while the technology means we can deliver screening and diagnosis of patients regardless of their location.

By enabling access to screening opportunities and empowering healthcare ecosystems in underserved communities, we aim to reduce the strain on existing healthcare resources by ensuring only high-risk patients are transferred to the tertiary hospitals while driving equitable care for all. These are the ambitions that AstraZeneca’s flagship health equity programmes, Cancer Care Africa and Healthy Heart Africa, are committed to supporting.

We also know that the health of our planet and the health of people are inextricably linked. Africa is suffering disproportionately¹⁰ from the impact of climate change, which is harming food and water security and has a direct impact on human health. Healthcare is a significant contributor to carbon emissions globally, particularly in settings where a disease is significantly progressed. If we can detect and treat diseases earlier through digital solutions, we can also reduce the adverse effects on the environment.

The undeniable potential in breaking down barriers

While AI's impact on healthcare is global, its significance is amplified in emerging markets. Here, the convergence of AI and digital innovation is transforming healthcare delivery. By harnessing AI's potential, emerging markets can alleviate the strain on overburdened healthcare systems and foster sustainable health outcomes for their populations¹¹. Moreover, AI-driven initiatives empower local healthcare providers, equipping them with the tools and insights needed to deliver quality care efficiently.

The transformative potential of AI in healthcare is undeniable, particularly in addressing the pressing challenges faced by emerging markets. By harnessing AI's capabilities, we can build a future where quality healthcare is not a privilege but a fundamental human right. As we navigate the complexities of global healthcare, we need to embrace AI as a catalyst for positive change, propelling us towards a healthier, more sustainable, and more equitable world.

Read more of Nick’s commentary on this topic in the World Economic Forum article.

Veeva ID: Z4-67781
Date of preparation: August 2024