HK scientist develops retinal scan technology to identify early childhood autism
(VOVWORLD) - A Chinese Hong Kong scientist has developed a method to use machine learning and artificial intelligence to scan retinas of children as young as six to detect early autism or the risk of autism and hopes to develop a commercial product this year.
 Benny Zee, a scientist from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, demonstrates retinal eye scanning technology used for early detection of autism during an interview with Reuters in Hong Kong, China January 29, 2021. Picture taken January 29, 2021. (Photo: REUTERS) |
Retinal eye scanning can help to improve early detection and treatment outcomes for children, said Benny Zee, a professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong.
His method uses a high-resolution camera with new computer software which analyses a combination of factors including fibre layers and blood vessels in the eye. The technology can be used to identify children at risk of autism and get them into treatment programmes sooner, said Zee.
Autism specialists welcomed his findings but said there remained a huge stigma, with parents often reluctant to believe their children have autism even when there are clear signs.