Scientists develop method for diagnosing heart disease from selfies

Scientists develop method for diagnosing heart disease from selfies

Scientists from various countries have presented promising studies that suggest that by analyzing facial images or simple photographs, it may be possible to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease. One such study included more than 1,000 patients from nine hospitals in China. It was there that an algorithm that analyzes patients' selfies correctly identified the presence of heart disease in about 80% of cases.

As part of the aforementioned study, four photos were taken of the patients (full-face, both sides, from above) and data on the condition of the coronary vessels were obtained using angiography. Based on the analysis of facial images, the algorithm “learns” to recognize characteristic features associated with cardiovascular problems — for example, wrinkles, ear folds, yellowish formations near the eyelids (xanthelasma) or a grayish ring around the cornea.

However, it is worth noting significant limitations: while the algorithm’s sensitivity was about 80%, its specificity—that is, its ability to correctly identify the absence of the disease—was much lower. In this study, false positives (when the algorithm indicated a risk when there was none) were found to be up to 50%.

The reasons for this approach are understandable: analyzing faces or photos is a cheap, fast, and accessible way to pre-screen. As the researchers note, this could potentially allow people at risk to do home screenings and identify those who need further medical examination.

But the technology is not yet ready to replace a full-fledged medical examination. The researchers emphasize that the algorithm is an auxiliary tool, not a definitive diagnostic tool—especially because of the risk of false positives and the possible ethical and legal uncertainty surrounding the use of facial photos.

So, while the idea of ​​diagnosing heart disease from selfies sounds like science fiction, it already has real research behind it. However, its implementation into mass medical practice is still far away. It is important to remember: no photo will replace a doctor's check-up, ECG, heart ultrasound, or other clinical examinations.