BREAKING: Groundbreaking Research to Combat Racial Bias in AI!
Former dental hygienist Dorothy Oteng is fighting back against breast cancer in a whole new way. After surviving the disease, she’s now part of a revolutionary program at Howard University that’s using data science to eliminate biases in artificial intelligence (AI) and promote data equity. And she’s not alone – Howard’s Center for Applied Data Science and Analytics (CADSA) is training a diverse group of students to tackle this critical issue.
Did you know that Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer, even though fewer of them are actually diagnosed? This shocking disparity is just one example of how AI algorithms can unintentionally disadvantage communities of color. In fact, recent scientific research revealed that a healthcare algorithm incorrectly identified Black patients as healthier and needing less treatment, potentially endangering their lives.
But now, thanks to CADSA, things are about to change. The key to combating bias in AI is diversity. By training a new generation of data scientists from underrepresented backgrounds, CADSA aims to bring fresh perspectives and sensitivity to the field. With a diverse workforce, biases can be recognized and eliminated, leading to fairer and more accurate AI algorithms.
CADSA is already making waves in various areas. For example, they’re addressing bias in the AI-driven credit approval process, which can lead to unjust denials based on factors like zip code. By fixing these biases, CADSA not only promotes equity but also benefits historically disadvantaged groups, like those facing wealth gaps and food insecurities.
Oteng, one of the Mastercard Impact Data Science Scholars, is thrilled to be part of this pioneering program. She’s taken courses in applied data science and computational social data justice and praises Howard’s supportive community. With a dream of giving back and helping future generations of data scientists, Oteng hopes to teach at Howard and expand research on Black women’s health.
We’re witnessing the birth of a new era in AI – one where diversity and equity are at the forefront. Will this groundbreaking research pave the way for a fairer future, not just in healthcare, but in all areas impacted by AI? Comment below and let us know your thoughts on this game-changing development!
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