Heart Eye announces AI-driven retinal imaging system to detect biomarkers of cardiovascular health risks

The Dr.Noon CVD tool uses retinal scans to screen for cardiovascular disease. Image courtesy of Heart Eye.

Heart Eye Diagnostics Limited, based in the UK, announced a new tool for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk assessment using retinal imaging. Dr.Noon CVD uses artificial intelligence (AI) to detect and predict future cardiovascular risks. The noninvasive system uses retinal imaging rather than traditional predictive tools, such as blood sampling, CT scans or carotid ultrasounds.

According to a press release from Heart Eye, the retinal-based AI algorithm exhibits the same degree of accuracy as heart CT scans. The technology is being further developed to provide information on other systemic health factors, such as kidney function, using other ocular biomarkers.

The device’s deep-learning algorithm is validated on a global cohort to match the predictive performance of heart CT scans. The design is intended to be scalable and cost-effective, expanding access to patients who may be otherwise unable to undergo scans for CVD risks.

In the press release, Dr Husain Khaki, the director of Heart Eye, described potential applications for the device. “Traditional methods like heart CT scans come with a lot of drawbacks for mass screening including high radiation doses, long wait times and expensive costs. This technology helps lower healthcare costs by catching potential issues early and preventing strokes and heart disease before they become serious,” he said.

In a press release, Heart Eye stated that the Dr.Noon CVD tool provides risk assessment in 3 minutes. Image courtesy of Heart Eye.

Dr Khaki also noted that early, accurate diagnosis represents “a breakthrough” for patients with CVD or at risk of CVD. He praised the speed of the screening tool.

“The fact that results are available in just three minutes is a game-changer for opticians, hospitals and primary care providers,” Dr Khaki said. “It means they can act quickly with preventative care, which leads to better outcomes for patients.”

Heart Eye will offer free cardiovascular disease risk retinal scans using Dr.Noon CVD at two upcoming meetings in the UK: 100% Optical, which runs from 1-3 March at ExCeL in London, and Optix Conference, which runs from 17-19 March at The Celtic Manor in Wales.

Reference

1. World’s First AI-Powered Cardiovascular Retinal Screening to be launched in the UK. News release. Heart Eye Diagnostics LTD. Published February 19, 2025. Accessed February 19, 2025.