Uncovering Hidden Patterns: AI's Impact in Bogotá and London
From uncovering patterns in messy data to advancing chronic disease prevention, AI continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in healthcare—and well beyond. Here are some insights and ideas I’ve encountered recently that show just how transformative this technology can be.
Image: Unsplash
The AI Frontier in Bogotá
Invited by my friends at Rosario University, I had the privilege of speaking at a Cognitive Computing conference organized by the Latin American branch of the IEEE. The event attracted AI and computing experts from across Latin America, the US, and Europe, with discussions ranging from healthcare to astronomy, underscoring the incredible breadth of AI's applications.
In my talk, I focused on how AI can predict and manage chronic diseases, highlighting the potential of Large Language Models as well as their limitations. I also shared Metadvice’s work on using neural networks—trained on NHS patient data and medical guidelines—to identify patients at risk of developing new conditions. This approach could save lives and reduce suffering by enabling early interventions. These breakthroughs aren’t just theoretical; they are directly shaping how healthcare systems worldwide allocate resources to tackle chronic diseases.
One of the most thought-provoking presentations at the conference explored how AI can uncover ‘unknown unknowns’—hidden patterns in vast datasets that may point to new phenomena. Whether analyzing astronomical scans from world-class telescopes in Chile or sifting through messy health data, this approach has the potential to lead to groundbreaking discoveries.
Bridging Western and Indigenous Medicine
Another fascinating topic was Colombia’s exploration of the interface between Western and indigenous medical practices. This blending could offer new diagnostic approaches for conditions like autoimmune diseases, where symptoms are often ambiguous, and treatment outcomes vary widely. Could Colombia’s innovative approach serve as a model for integrating diverse medical traditions worldwide?
London Insights on Healthy Longevity
Back in London, I chaired a session on healthy longevity at the Royal Society of Medicine. In a discussion with an audience of successful entrepreneurs, we explored how digital twins could revolutionize our ability to anticipate and intervene in health outcomes. These virtual models, constructed from a person’s unique health data, have the potential to predict individual health futures and personalize interventions to extend healthy lifespans.
Dr. Tim Spector, founder of Zoe, captivated the audience with his research on the gut microbiome. He emphasized the profound influence of gut microorganisms on overall health and disease, as well as the damaging effects of ultra-processed foods. This underscores the urgent need for health professionals to integrate nutrition into preventive care, especially for underserved communities.
While the session sparked important discussions, it left me reflecting on the health disparities that persist beyond the walls of prestigious venues like the RSM. Addressing these challenges will require targeted efforts to train healthcare providers in preventive medicine, nutrition, and other critical areas.
Takeaways and Looking Ahead
The conversations I’ve had recently—from Bogotá to London—have reinforced one key lesson: AI has the power to drive transformative change, but only if we’re intentional about how we apply it. Whether it’s integrating indigenous and Western medicine in Colombia or using digital twins to advance healthy longevity, the opportunities are vast. The question is: how do we ensure these innovations are accessible to everyone, not just a privileged few?
