AI-powered headset could help predict epileptic seizures before they happen
A unique AI-powered headset has been designed to predict epileptic seizures minutes before they occur by scientists.
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The wearable device could "dramatically transform" the way the condition is managed, according the team behind the research at The Glasgow Caledonian University.
Currently, there are no readily available device that can give people with epilepsy advanced warnings of seizures.
The headset analyses brainwaves and heart functions to detect an impending seizure, allowing the wearer to take precautions or warn those around them.
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The scientist behind the project says its greatest benefit could be giving people with epilepsy more confidence about the condition, helping them to avoid any secondary injuries caused by a seizure.
Hundreds of thousands of people in the UK live with epilepsy, as well as millions around the world.
Professor Hadi Larijani, who leads the research team at Glasgow Caledonian University, said: "Providing even a few minutes' warning could be life changing.
"Our goal is to empower patients and families with time to act to stay safe and live more independently."
He said the headset is "very unique" and they hope to one day release it as a wearable device similar to a cap.
Prof Larijani added: "We want it to be as discreet as possible, to be wireless, light – it's a lot of features that none of the other tools right now have."
The system was trained using thousands of hours of historical electroencephalography and electrocardiography recordings and researchers also used a custom-made "phantom head," attaching electrodes to it to simulate a real user.
The AI can issue a timely alert, giving patients and families crucial minutes to prepare and stay safe.
It has an accuracy of up to 95 per cent and the AI algorithm can display its levels of confidence about the chances of an impending seizure.
Prof Larijani said: "For families affected by epilepsy, even a brief warning means they can prevent injuries and reduce fear.
"That is the true measure of success for us."
The team's initial prototypes have used third-party hardware but they hope to develop their own models.
Due to the need for regulatory approvals, it will likely be some years before the product becomes widely available.
Prof Larijani added: "The most regulated things are medical devices. It takes time to get through the hurdles.
"But I think we’ve done the initial feasibility testing both on the software and the hardware characteristics.
"Now we’re looking at a more commercial-ready product that hopefully will be going through the hurdles of the initial accreditation for medical devices."
The research team has now secured fresh support from UK Research and Innovation through its £9 million Proof of Concept programme.