Volpara Health Technologies (ASX:VHT) has announced a new research and development collaboration with Microsoft to accelerate the creation of a product that detects and quantifies breast arterial calcifications (BACs).
The product is designed to build upon Volpara's approach to quantitative and objective breast density scoring using artificial intelligence (AI). It will create a tissue composition map that identifies and quantifies BACs from a mammogram, helping radiologists identify the need to take steps toward the prevention of heart disease.
Machine learning and AI specialists from Microsoft will assist with improving Volpara's BACs model and data processing. Microsoft engineers will collaborate with the Volpara team on the product's technical development and operationalization.
This project is an expansion of the companies' existing relationship.
For women, the BACs product would add a new dimension to their regular breast screenings, providing important information about their cardiovascular health.
Recently, Volpara announced Teri Thomas as its new CEO, with co-founder and former CEO Dr Ralph Highnam transitioning to chief science and innovation officer.
"The trusted relationship we have built with Microsoft over the years is important to Volpara's future, especially our utilisation of the powerful Azure Cloud platform for machine learning and product development. Our mission and vision around the future of healthcare align well with Microsoft's. Though we are in the early stages of BAC product development, this collaboration will accelerate our efforts as we advance science together," said Dr Highnam.
"With one in three deaths in New Zealand caused by cardiovascular disease, this new research and development collaboration means that, together, we can detect and identify earlier symptoms of heart disease in women," said Microsoft New Zealand partner ead, Matt Bostwick.
"Volpara's innovation with AI is not only improving healthcare across the globe, but it has the potential to save millions of lives. This is true AI for Good."
