we learn about an innovative approach that leverages AI technology to screen for cardiovascular diseases through eye tests. The eye, a complex organ with the ability to reveal significant health information, plays a crucial role in this process.

At Bupa Optical and Hearing stores, such as the one in Pacific Fair on the Gold Coast, regular eye tests are conducted to ensure prescriptions are up to date. However, the eye's capability extends beyond vision correction. It offers a direct, non-invasive view of blood vessels, providing insights into an individual's current and future health risks, particularly related to the heart.

People suffer from cardiovascular conditions

In Australia, 1.2 million people suffer from cardiovascular conditions, yet routine heart check-ups are rare unless serious symptoms occur. This sparked an idea in 2015 at Melbourne University: What if AI could be used in optometry to screen for both eye and cardiovascular diseases early on? This concept led to the development of Eye Inspect, a software that analyzes retinal photographs against a vast database of images to detect signs of concern.

Karen Macon, Bupa's senior optometrist, championed the integration of Eye Inspect into every Bupa appointment. Today, Eye Inspect can test for over a hundred eye and health issues, offering a proactive approach to identifying and preventing heart disease, the leading cause of death in Australia.

Bupa's Eye Inspect technology

Bupa's Eye Inspect technology transforms their stores into comprehensive health screening centers, reflecting their commitment to putting customers' hearts at the forefront of their services. For more information, visit www.eye.gov.au.