Can AI detect concussion in boxers? | BBC News

AI Concussion Detection in Boxing: A Summary

Key Concepts:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Concussion detection
• Eye-tracking technology
• Algorithm
• Cognitive impairment
• Blind spot identification
• Boxing regulations
• Early detection
• Risk mitigation
• Sports safety

AI Judge in Boxing and Concussion Detection

The video discusses the use of AI in boxing, initially highlighting the use of an AI judge, Epne, in the Alexander Usk vs. Tyson Fury fight to promote fairness. The main focus then shifts to Dr. Cameron Maru's development of AI for concussion detection among boxers, a technology still in its early stages but with the potential to be a "gamechanger."

How the AI Concussion Detection Technology Works

Dr. Maru's team has created an application that tracks the eye and pupils to identify the onset of concussion. The technology is designed to be non-invasive and accessible in a sporting context.

• Algorithm's Learning: The AI algorithm is trained to identify signs of concussion by assessing a person's ability to follow motions correctly and identify blind spots.
• Cognitive Impairment: Concussion often impairs cognitive abilities, making it difficult to follow a straight or moving line or identify objects in one's blind spot.
• Eye-Tracking: The system uses eye-tracking to monitor the correlation between the eye's movement and a moving object (represented by a ball in the demonstration).

The Problem of Concussions in Boxing

Studies suggest that most professional boxers will suffer a brain injury during their careers, increasing the risk of diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Boxers often push themselves to the limit, making external intervention necessary to prevent harm.

• Boxer's Mentality: Boxers are described as "warriors" who are unlikely to quit or "throw in the towel," even when injured.
• Need for Intervention: The technology aims to provide an objective assessment of a boxer's condition, potentially overriding their own judgment or pressure to continue fighting.

Demonstration of the Technology

The video demonstrates the technology using eye-tracking data.

• Normal Tracking: In a normal case, the eye-tracking (purple line) closely follows the ball's position (green line), indicating good synchronization and responsiveness.
• Concussion Tracking: In a case of obvious concussion, there is a significant discrepancy between the eye-tracking and the ball's position, indicating impaired vision and delayed response times.
• Millisecond Differences: Even small differences in response times (milliseconds) can indicate significant discrepancies and potential concussion.
• Six Tests: The system uses six tests to provide a broader perspective on the likelihood and severity of a concussion.

Implications and Challenges

The technology could lead to boxers being pulled from upcoming matches if a concussion is detected.

• Current Regulations: Current boxing regulations suspend boxers for 28 days after a knockout or concussion diagnosis by a ringside doctor.
• Boxer's Concerns: Callum, a retired boxer, expresses concern about the potential financial impact of being sidelined due to early concussion detection, as boxing is a full-time career for many.
• Financial Implications: Boxers rely on fight earnings to "pay the bills," and canceling a fight can have significant financial consequences.

Testing and Results

Callum and Khaled tested the technology post-sparring.

• Callum's Results: Callum's results showed consistency across all six tests, indicating no signs of concussion.
• Khaled's Results: Khaled's results also showed good consistency between eye-tracking and ball position, with no cause for concern.

Acceptance and Future Development

The video explores the potential acceptance of the technology by boxers.

• Potential Resistance: Some boxers may resist the technology if it prevents them from fighting.
• Long-Term Benefits: Looking back, boxers might appreciate the intervention if it prevents long-term health consequences.
• Training vs. Matches: Concussions can occur during training, where there are typically no medical checks.
• Scaling the Technology: The goal is to scale the technology for use in both amateur and professional boxing matches.
• Wider Applications: The technology has potential applications in other sports beyond boxing.

Conclusion

The AI concussion detection technology represents a promising advancement in sports safety, particularly in boxing. While challenges remain regarding acceptance and implementation, the potential to mitigate the long-term health risks associated with concussions makes it a valuable development. The technology's ability to provide objective, non-invasive assessments could lead to earlier detection and intervention, ultimately protecting athletes from further harm.