Your New Doctor (Batteries Not Included)

A new study at the University of Coventry suggests that computers are able to predict the progress of bladder cancer more effectively than human doctors.

The progression of this particular form of cancer is complex, but evidence shows that with the aid of leading-edge software, computer predictions were 82 percent accurate compared with a 65% accuracy rate achieved by consultant urologists.

Similar techniques have been used to help with the treatment of back pain, infertility and prostate cancer. Complementary practitioners can now use a computerised screening system to aid their diagnosis of patients and test for suitable remedies. The BEST system can screen for vitamin and mineral deficencies, food intolerances, allergies, hormone levels and general imbalances within the body, which can then be addressed using traditional alternative techniques. The system can also cross-reference the patients condition with a database of 30,000 herbal and homeopathic remedies and suggest the most suitable match.

Sunday, 13 August 2000