Heart failure research project honoured at national awards

Experts from the University’s Faculty of Health were hailed for their innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI) to provide tailored treatment plans for patients. The project, in collaboration with Red Star AI Ltd, won the Trailblazing AI Collaboration category at the annual Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards.

The pilot project has used machine learning to examine health records of heart failure patients, determining whether or not modern knowledge and medications could potentially improve their welfare.

Up to a million people in the UK are living with heart failure, a condition that reduces quality of life and increases the risk of being admitted to hospital with symptoms such as breathlessness and fluid build-up. 

Dr Ify Mordi, who has led the research, supervised PhD student Dr Mya Win, said, “Artificial intelligence has the potential to transform patient care.

“Our work with Red Star AI has harnessed this power to identify alternative treatment plans for patients who may currently be on outdated or less effective medication.

“We know there has been significant advances for heart failure care in recent years, with new medications having been developed. However, we also know that many patients who were diagnosed before these advances may still be on outdated treatments that are not optimal for them.

“This work has proven that AI can identify the most effective medication, allowing patients to live their lives to their full potential. 

“Winning this award is is a tremendous achievement and I thank everyone at the University and at Red Star AI for their support and endeavour in bringing this project to fruition.”

Helen Cross, Director of Investment and Research at the Scottish Funding Council, said, “These awards shine a light on the impressive collaborations that power Scotland’s innovation ecosystem and today’s winners show just how transformative those partnerships can be. 

“Bringing together the strength of Scotland’s academic base and combining that knowledge with the expertise of Scottish industry is hugely important in innovating for the future.”