Researchers call for bias-free artificial intelligence

Clinicians and surgeons are increasingly using medical devices based on artificial intelligence. These AI devices, which rely on data-driven algorithms to inform health care decisions, presently aid in diagnosing cancers, heart conditions and diseases of the eye, with many more applications on the way. In a new study, Stanford faculty discuss sex, gender and race bias in medical technologies. Pulse oximeters, for example, are more likely to incorrectly report blood gas levels in dark-skinned individuals and in women. Given this surge in AI, two Stanford University faculty members are calling for efforts to ensure that this technology does not exacerbate existing heath care disparities.