How a cutting-edge AI model developed in Saudi Arabia is reshaping medical diagnostics

Special How a cutting-edge AI model developed in Saudi Arabia is reshaping medical diagnostics
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Special How a cutting-edge AI model developed in Saudi Arabia is reshaping medical diagnostics
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Updated 22 August 2024
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How a cutting-edge AI model developed in Saudi Arabia is reshaping medical diagnostics

How a cutting-edge AI model developed in Saudi Arabia is reshaping medical diagnostics
  • MiniGPT-Med is transforming diagnostics by enhancing accuracy and efficiency in disease detection
  • Developed by KAUST and SDAIA, it leverages advanced vision-interfaced technology to interpret medical scans

RIYADH: Artificial intelligence in healthcare is revolutionizing medical diagnostics, from streamlining patient care to enhancing the speed and accuracy of disease detection.

Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of this revolution with the development of an innovative AI model called MiniGPT-Med, which promises to reshape how medical professionals approach diagnostics.

With the ability to analyze vast amounts of data and identify patterns that might be missed by the human eye, AI is fast becoming an indispensable healthcare tool.

Whether detecting early signs of diseases, interpreting medical scans or helping plan treatment, AI’s role in medicine is expanding rapidly, reducing costs and improving patient outcomes.

Enter MiniGPT-Med, a cutting-edge, vision-interfaced AI model developed in Saudi Arabia by the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in collaboration with the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority.

Launched in July, this advanced tool is designed to enhance the accuracy of medical diagnostics by integrating image analysis with textual clinical data, significantly improving the detection of conditions such as pneumonia, edema, brain tumors and lung cancer.

“MiniGPT-Med aids doctors by improving diagnostic accuracy through integrated processing of both image and textual clinical data,” Mohamed Elhoseiny, assistant professor of computer science at the Visual Computing Center at KAUST, told Arab News.

“It can be thought of as giving a large language model medical eyesight by carefully integrating vision into the language model and preparing the necessary data to learn these skills, including the localization of issues in medical images.”

MiniGPT-Med builds on the existing architecture of large language models — or LLMs — like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, which have already demonstrated exceptional medical knowledge.

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One of the key features that sets MiniGPT-Med apart from other AI models is its ability to localize abnormalities within medical images.

Doctors interact with it using simple, predefined queries such as “Could you describe the contents of this image for me?” or “Where is the abnormality?”

The AI then provides immediate, accurate results, such as identifying pneumonia in a chest X-ray or pinpointing the exact region of a brain tumor in an MRI scan.

In initial trials, it has already surpassed the accuracy of previous models by as much as 19 percent.

Trained on diverse medical datasets, MiniGPT-Med leverages millions of cases to back up its diagnoses, drawing reasoned conclusions by comparing images to similar cases in its database.

DID YOUKNOW?

• MiniGPT-Med enhances diagnostic accuracy by integrating image analysis with clinical data.

The AI model identifies diseases such as pneumonia, edema, brain tumors, and lung cancer.

• It localizes abnormalities in medical images, helping doctors to make precise diagnoses.

• Developed by KAUST and SDAIA, it is part of Saudi Arabia’s drive to lead in AI healthcare.

The model sources its information from five comprehensive medical datasets, including MIMIC-CXR (chest X-ray images and reports), NLST (low-dose CT scans for lung cancer detection), SLAKE (radiology images), RSNA (pneumonia detection), and RadVQA (radiology images).

Despite its accuracy, Elhoseiny is keen to emphasize that MiniGPT-Med is designed to complement, not replace, healthcare professionals.

“The new diagnostics method introduced by models like MiniGPT-Med aims to assist, not replace, physicians and radiologists, enabling them to do more with less,” he said.

Instead, by enhancing diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, the AI tool is intended to help doctors deliver better care, especially in under-resourced areas.

Looking to the future, the development team at KAUST and SDAIA plans to incorporate more diverse datasets, improve the model’s understanding of complex medical terminology, and enhance its reliability.

Extensive clinical validation studies are also planned to ensure that MiniGPT-Med is safe and effective in real world healthcare environments.

The collaboration between KAUST and SDAIA represents a significant step forward in the application of AI in healthcare.

Elhoseiny says the partnership is aligned with the broader goals of the new GenAI Center of Excellence at KAUST, where further innovations in AI are expected to emerge.

With technologies like MiniGPT-Med, Saudi Arabia is not only advancing its healthcare capabilities but also positioning itself as a leader in the global AI landscape.

As these technologies continue to evolve, they hold the promise of transforming healthcare practices worldwide, offering hope for more accurate diagnoses and better patient outcomes.
 

 


Emir of Kuwait sends King Salman GCC Summit letter

Emir of Kuwait sends King Salman GCC Summit letter
Updated 27 November 2024
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Emir of Kuwait sends King Salman GCC Summit letter

Emir of Kuwait sends King Salman GCC Summit letter
  • Message delivered to minister during meeting in Riyadh

RIYADH: King Salman has received a letter from the Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah inviting him to the Gulf Cooperation Council Summit.

The message was delivered to Minister of State Prince Turki bin Mohammed bin Fahd during a meeting in Riyadh on Tuesday with Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya.

The two sides held cordial talks and discussed issues of common interest.

The 45th GCC Summit takes place in Kuwait on Sunday.


King Salman asks people of Saudi Arabia to pray on Thursday for rain

King Salman asks people of Saudi Arabia to pray on Thursday for rain
Updated 27 November 2024
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King Salman asks people of Saudi Arabia to pray on Thursday for rain

King Salman asks people of Saudi Arabia to pray on Thursday for rain

RIYADH: King Salman called on Muslims in Saudi Arabia to pray on Thursday for rain, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

“Everyone who is able should be keen to perform the prayer, in accordance with the tradition of Prophet Muhammad,” the Royal Court said.

Muslims are often asked to pray for rainfall in times of drought or other water shortages.


Global Harmony event concludes with celebration of Egyptian culture in Riyadh

Global Harmony event concludes with celebration of Egyptian culture in Riyadh
Updated 26 November 2024
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Global Harmony event concludes with celebration of Egyptian culture in Riyadh

Global Harmony event concludes with celebration of Egyptian culture in Riyadh
  • Saudi Arabia and Egypt continue to strengthen their political relationship through agreements in trade, tourism, energy and culture

RIYADH: The Global Harmony initiative concludes its third edition with a week-long celebration of Egyptian music, art and tradition in Suwaidi Park as part of Riyadh Season.

Running from Nov. 24-30 and organized by the Ministry of Media, the event invites visitors to experience Egypt’s rich heritage through a range of cultural activities.

Speaking to Arab News, Egyptian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Tarek El-Meligy highlighted the deep-rooted connection between the two nations. “The Egyptian community is the most harmonious, coexistent and understanding in a positive way within Saudi society,” he said.

“If you ask any Egyptian which country they would like to live in after Egypt, they will say Saudi Arabia.”

The Egyptian ambassador to Saudi Arabia visits the Egyptian festival at Riyadh’s Suwaidi Park, held as part of the Global Harmony initiative on Nov. 24, 2024. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

Sarry Shaaban, an executive and consultant at the General Entertainment Authority, said: “We are talking about millions of visitors, both residents and Saudis, entering the park. Whether I’m a resident, a Saudi or from a country hosting the event, it provides an opportunity for residents to learn about your culture, colors, explore its arts, food, crafts, and traditional industries.”

Live music and dance performances displaying Egypt’s cultural traditions, with the rhythm of drums and flutes and performers in traditional costumes, have brought the life and spirit of Cairo’s streets to Riyadh.

A separate bazaar area has been set up featuring Egyptian cuisine, traditional clothing and handcrafted items.

Performers showcase traditional Egyptian folk costumes and dances during celebrations at Riyadh’s Suwaidi Park, part of the Global Harmony Initiative, on Nov. 24, 2024. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

“An event like this carries positive messages and highlights something we strive to emphasize every day, that we are one people, united by love and affection,” said El-Meligy.

Egyptian Sameh Nabil emphasized the feel of unity: “This initiative brought us closer together as Egyptians, and with Saudis here, I feel like we are brothers. I always feel like we are not expatriates.”

And visitor Khaled Zahir said: “This event reflects the love, connection and affection between Egyptians living in the Kingdom and Saudis.”

Performers in Egyptian attire take part in a parade at Riyadh’s Suwaidi Park, celebrating Egyptian culture as part of the Global Harmony initiative on Nov. 24, 2024. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

Egyptians make up 11 percent of Saudi Arabia’s population, according to the Saudi Census, meaning such exhibitions are important in promoting mutual respect and harmony.

El-Meligy said Saudi Arabia hosted the largest Egyptian expatriate community abroad, with remittances from those in the Kingdom forming a significant part of their home nation’s income.

“In recent months, remittances from Egyptians abroad have increased substantially, thanks to the facilities between the two countries and the confidence in both the Saudi and Egyptian economies,” he added.

Performers in Egyptian attire take part in a parade at Riyadh’s Suwaidi Park, celebrating Egyptian culture as part of the Global Harmony initiative on Nov. 24, 2024. (Photo/@RiyadhSeason)

Saudi Arabia and Egypt continue to strengthen their political relationship through agreements in trade, tourism, energy and culture. In his October visit to Cairo, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to discuss investment opportunities and the establishment of a supreme coordination council to deepen bilateral relations.

Trade between Saudi Arabia and Egypt saw a 35.16 percent annual increase in the first half of 2024, according to the General Authority of Statistics. The increase was driven by a 73.44 percent surge in Saudi imports from Egypt, totaling $4.18 billion.

Egypt has also shown a growing interest in investing in Saudi Arabia, with a 71 percent rise in licenses granted to Egyptian firms in the second quarter of 2024.

The festival, which began in October, highlights the lives, contributions and cultural integration of its residents. So far, it has celebrated cultures including Indian heritage and moving through Philippine, Indonesian, Pakistani, Yemeni, Sudanese, Bangladeshi, Jordanian, Lebanese and Syrian traditions.

 


Riyadh Expo 2030 provides progress update to international exhibitions regulator BIE

The General Director of the Expo 2030 Riyadh Support Office, Abdulaziz Alghannam, speaks at the 175th general assembly meeting.
The General Director of the Expo 2030 Riyadh Support Office, Abdulaziz Alghannam, speaks at the 175th general assembly meeting.
Updated 26 November 2024
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Riyadh Expo 2030 provides progress update to international exhibitions regulator BIE

The General Director of the Expo 2030 Riyadh Support Office, Abdulaziz Alghannam, speaks at the 175th general assembly meeting.
  • Members of Riyadh Expo 2030 update Bureau International des Expositions on progress toward hosting the event

RIYADH: A Saudi delegation representing Riyadh Expo 2030 took part in a Bureau International des Expositions meeting on Tuesday to review the Kingdom’s readiness to host the global event.

In November 2023, Saudi Arabia won the bid to host the 2030 World Expo between October 2030 and March 2031 in the capital, Riyadh.

The Riyadh Expo 2030 delegation took part in the 175th general assembly meeting of the BIE, a Paris-based intergovernmental organization which oversees and regulates World Expos, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

They updated senior officials of the BIE about the latest Saudi developments and preparations for hosting the event. They also discussed progress on work to accommodate an expected 246 exhibitors, including countries, organizations and companies, at a site north of Riyadh.

Under the theme “The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow,” the event aims to be a unique platform for innovations and modern technologies which aim to find answers to challenges facing the planet in various fields, according to the Expo 2030 website.


Hospitality sector innovations, trends showcased at Riyadh exhibition

Hospitality sector innovations, trends showcased at Riyadh exhibition
Updated 26 November 2024
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Hospitality sector innovations, trends showcased at Riyadh exhibition

Hospitality sector innovations, trends showcased at Riyadh exhibition
  • Event gathers local and international exhibitors, industry leaders, and visitors to showcase trends, innovations, and business opportunities in the sector
  • Exhibition features an array of engaging activities, including live cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, a barista competition, and workshops for aspiring culinary professionals

RIYADH: This year’s HORECA exhibition held in Riyadh is underscoring the Kingdom’s growing influence in the global hospitality market.

Held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, the three-day event concludes on Nov. 27 and gathers local and international exhibitors, industry leaders, and visitors to showcase trends, innovations, and business opportunities in the sector.

The event contributes to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by fostering private-sector growth, promoting tourism, and enhancing the country’s food and beverage industries.

The exhibition features an array of engaging activities, including live cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, a barista competition, and workshops for aspiring culinary professionals.

Visitors can sample creative dishes, observe new techniques in food and beverage, and explore sustainable packaging solutions, among other highlights.

Prince Waleed bin Nasser, guest of honor and CEO of Mukatafa Co., highlighted the importance of collaboration between the private and public sectors.

Speaking at a session on public policies impacting the food and beverage sector, he said: “The vision today aspires for the private sector to play a significant role in the development of the economy. The private sector must take the initiative to have a voice. To achieve this, it needs to be organized and united in presenting a single perspective.”

He also emphasized the need for proactive engagement: “We must work as one, united with a common vision, and present this vision in a professional manner backed by facts, ensuring that the decisions made have a positive impact on the sector and the citizens.”

Culinary competitions are among the highlights celebrating creativity and technical skills at HORECA. Mohammed Naif, a participant representing Saudi Arabia’s Hotel and Tourism Management Institute, told Arab News: “The atmosphere was amazing, and the competition was all about passion and enjoyment. There was a panel of judges and organizers who were very supportive — if you made a mistake, they would help you, and if you had an incomplete idea, they would guide you.

“I encourage anyone with a passion for cooking to join, showcase their creativity, and learn while bringing out their best.”

The exhibition also provided a platform for networking, with exhibitors showcasing local innovations as well as international brands. From cutting-edge hospitality tech to Saudi-inspired culinary creations, the event highlighted the Kingdom’s growing reputation as a global hub for the sector.