AI Can Detect Alzheimer’s in Speech Patterns Before Symptoms Show, Says Study

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have found that artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) can detect early signs of cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease by analyzing a person’s speech. The study used advanced ML and natural language processing tools to assess speech patterns in 206 people. Researchers compared the participants’ speech analytics to their cerebral spinal fluid samples and MRI scans and found that the artificial intelligence and machine learning method performed well in detecting mild cognitive impairment and identifying patients with evidence of Alzheimer’s disease. The technology could provide primary care providers with an easy-to-perform screening tool for at-risk individuals.