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Today, we’re diving into how AI (artificial intelligence) and advanced gadgets are transforming diagnostics, telehealth and personal health management. 

Let’s start with diagnostics. Imagine you have a lump or need some imaging for your abdomen or knee, for example. AI can now quickly analyze your x-rays, MRIs and pathology slides and catch details that might have slipped past even the most experienced specialist.  

For example, Aidoc’s AI helps emergency departments identify pulmonary embolisms or brain hemorrhages in record time, even before a radiologist reviews the scan. 

Early cancer detection  

AI has been particularly revolutionary in spotting early-stage breast cancer and lung cancer — conditions where early detection can make a life-saving difference.  

A study published in The Lancet Digital Health in 2022 found that AI systems in mammography detected breast cancer with accuracy comparable to that of human radiologists, with fewer false negatives. 

But what’s truly game-changing is personalized healthcare. AI programs can analyze your unique data and consider your complex medical history, genetic details and even lifestyle factors to create customized diagnostics.  

It’s like having a personal Sherlock Holmes dedicated to solving your health puzzles. 

For example, AI helps tailor treatment plans for complex conditions like irritable bowel syndrome. Apps like MyGIHealth analyze symptoms and dietary habits to recommend personalized lifestyle changes, all while tracking improvements over time. 

Remote-monitoring devices 

Real-world conditions like diabetes, hypertension or even heart arrhythmias are now more manageable with telehealth devices.  

Thanks to remote patient-monitoring gadgets like KardiaMobile or the new Apple Watch, healthcare providers can track metrics such as blood pressure, heart rate or blood sugar levels in real time. Imagine catching an irregular heartbeat or an impending hypertensive crisis before it escalates. 

Non-invasive glucose monitoring is the next big thing. While “Raman spectroscopy-based” gadgets to analyze body fluids without needles are still in development, continuous glucose monitoring devices like the Dexcom G7 and Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre 3 are making diabetes management easier than ever. No more finger sticks, just continuous data delivered straight to your smartphone from a tiny implanted sensor. 

And it’s not just for diabetes. Health wearables like Fitbit now sync with AI-powered apps that analyze sleep, activity and even stress levels.  

For example, if you’re recovering from long Covid or managing chronic fatigue syndrome, these gadgets can identify patterns and suggest tweaks to optimize your energy levels. 

What does all this mean for you? It means healthcare is becoming more accessible, accurate and personalized than ever. Diagnosing early-stage cancer, managing diabetes without needles, or preventing a heart attack with a smartwatch — it’s not just possible; it is happening. 

But here’s the thing: While AI and gadgets are incredible tools, they’re not replacements for the human touch in healthcare. Your doctor, pharmacist and other providers are still your most valuable resources.  

Until next time, keep your health in check and your gadgets close! If this topic is interesting to you and you’d like more information on health wearables, I have a more comprehensive blog on my website at suzycohen.com. 

This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement.   

Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe.