Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the early diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases, according to Prof. Dr. Hakan Özdemir, head of the Translational Medicine and Artificial Intelligence Commission of the Turkish Ophthalmology Association.
Speaking at the 58th National Ophthalmology Congress in Antalya, Özdemir highlighted that AI technologies can diagnose conditions like diabetic retinopathy with over 99% accuracy using just a photograph. This early detection is crucial to prevent blindness.
Özdemir noted that while AI serves as a guide in treatment, practical applications in procedures like laser treatments or surgeries are still developing. He anticipates that in about ten years, patients in remote locations could receive treatment through AI-supported robotic technology.
The commission is also focused on training Turkish doctors and healthcare professionals from surrounding and European countries, sharing knowledge and developing new AI-supported software and programs.
Özdemir emphasized that Turkey's rich data resources provide a significant advantage in advancing AI in ophthalmology, although legal regulations currently limit full practical implementation.