University of Tokyo and NTT develop AI system to predict health risks

Researchers from the University of Tokyo and the NTT Group have developed an artificial intelligence system designed to predict the risk of developing lifestyle-related diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, within a 5 to 15 year timeframe.

Led by Toru Suzuki, the team analyzed approximately 17 years of medical checkup data from roughly 120,000 NTT employees. The system calculates the probability of disease onset for specific years and presents this information via graphs accessible on smartphones and computers. To encourage preventative action, the platform provides personalized recommendations for dietary adjustments and physical activity levels.

The technology is intended to assist nurses and healthcare professionals in providing more persuasive guidance to individuals, even those whose current medical results fall within normal ranges but face increased risks due to aging. Developed with support from the Cabinet Office, a prototype has been in use by NTT since May of last year, and approximately 10 other companies have recently begun utilizing the system for employee health management.