British-Pakistani Scientist Develops AI Eye Scan for Early Dementia Detection

Professor Rayaz Malik, a Qatar-based researcher at Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar, has developed an advanced AI-powered eye scan capable of detecting early signs of dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases years before visible symptoms appear.

The breakthrough technology uses artificial intelligence to analyse nerve fibres within the eye through a fast, non-invasive scanning process. Researchers say the system can reportedly provide diagnostic results within minutes, offering a significant advancement in early disease detection and preventive healthcare.

According to experts involved in the research, the AI-driven scan may identify dementia up to three years before noticeable symptoms emerge. The technology can also reportedly detect diabetic neuropathy nearly five years earlier than traditional diagnosis methods, potentially allowing patients to receive timely treatment and medical intervention.

Medical professionals believe early detection could play a crucial role in slowing disease progression, improving patient care, and enhancing long-term treatment planning. Neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia often remain undiagnosed until symptoms become severe, making early identification a major challenge within global healthcare systems.

The development has been praised as a significant milestone in AI-powered healthcare innovation, highlighting how artificial intelligence is transforming diagnostics, medical imaging, and predictive healthcare technologies.

Industry analysts say the research further demonstrates the growing impact of Pakistani-origin scientists and researchers in advancing global medical science and emerging technologies.

Experts also believe AI-assisted diagnostic tools could reduce pressure on healthcare systems by enabling quicker screenings, faster decision-making, and improved accessibility to preventive care solutions.