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Threads of our Existence: Should AI be fully introduced in the healthcare system?

As the world advances, the use of technology;  particularly that of automated intelligence; has become increasingly widespread. Notwithstanding, it opens doors to a risky gamble in which automation of our daily activities and occupations leads to a decline in human dominance. Furthermore, AI lacks the social and emotional awareness that plays key roles in our interactions and impacts our daily lives. It is fed with data only we can give which is sometimes flawed, inconsistent or outdated.


Concerning healthcare, it has slowly been introduced to make rapid diagnoses by detecting diseases early and simplifying doctor explanations through comprehensive risk assessments. However, concerns like data privacy, system bias, and result misinterpretation often outweigh the benefits of AI in genetic testing. This tells us that despite the glitz and glamour of technological innovation, we can never be 100% reliant. I believe AI shouldn’t be the main interpreter of information when making a diagnosis, instead, it should be a second option in the absence of a human professional throughout genetic testing. In this essay, I will discuss the pros and cons of  AI in genetic testing and when it should be best used in medical practice. 


Genetic testing is carried out for many reasons e.g.: Carrier testing, Diagnostic testing, and Predictive diagnosis (5).  The first step of the process is sample collection of bodily fluids followed by a laboratory analysis (1). Scientists look out for rare genetic mutations, sequencing errors and gene regulation. These three traits are essential as they provide crucial information to make a more informed diagnosis. Without compromising the thoroughness of the testing, we can decrease the time frame results obtained with the help of AI spanning to nine months (2). Thanks to the fact that AI is time-conscious and able to analyze large chunks of data in record time proves its efficiency in contrast to its simple framework and high accessibility making it even more attractive due to its reduced human error (3).  AI  can help diagnose patients in the most critical state that needs to be assessed. Indeed, this would help doctors save thousands of lives because they were not overly reliant on their expertise which can prove unreliable in stressful situations. 


In addition, have you ever been bothered or confused by medical jargon? 


The introduction of AI simplified explanations of diseases has brought more awareness of life-changing ailments and how to combat them (4). Through user-friendly explanations, it is ensured that public health is the main priority. Allowing those with limited scientific knowledge to be thoroughly educated and make informed decisions (4).


Lastly, due to high volumes of data fed into AI’s database, it can easily compare different research studies providing a more holistic view of an individual’s health. The ability to make comparative analysis from the  Human Gene Mutation Database and others shows that AI in genetic testing is far more aware and ahead than human practitioners by considering family history normally supplied by the patient who most likely cannot remember their entire family medical history to determine inheritance patterns (8).


On the flip side, The passcode for any form of testing is consent (6). Many AI platforms have information in their databases making them likely targets of data breaches. We must acknowledge that automated intelligence with information fed engages in third-party-sharing without authorized consent (6). This same technology is also being used to scan through people’s resumes faster, shortening employment decision time. Such sensitive information can lead to system bias, especially, if the data is from a larger demographic of the world population excluding minorities from pivotal opportunities (9).


In summary, we must use AI cautiously, and be aware of how new technology can easily transform our lives.




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