Using AI to improve glaucoma screening in community health centers
Official title: RFA-DP-24-081 Implementing AI-based Glaucoma Screening within Federally Qualified Health Centers
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11023851 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to use artificial intelligence to help find glaucoma earlier in people who might not have easy access to eye care, especially in communities with a lot of Black residents, where glaucoma is more common.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | September 29, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $750,000 |
| NIH project number | 1U01DP006827-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11023851 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in medically underserved areas, particularly those at higher risk for glaucoma, such as Black patients.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not reside in areas served by Federally Qualified Health Centers or who are not at risk for glaucoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to screening for primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) using artificial intelligence within Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). The study aims to implement a validated AI algorithm that interprets ocular imaging and clinical data to enhance early detection of glaucoma, particularly in underserved populations. By focusing on areas with high Black populations, where the prevalence of POAG is significantly higher, the research seeks to provide accessible and effective eye care. The program will be evaluated for its feasibility and effectiveness in improving screening rates and outcomes for at-risk patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and treatment of glaucoma, significantly improving eye health outcomes for millions of individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using AI for glaucoma detection, indicating a promising approach for this implementation study.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Owsley, Cynthia — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Owsley, Cynthia
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
IOP and CSF Pressure in Glaucoma Risk
This grant studies how eye pressure and cerebrospinal fluid pressure together influence glaucoma risk and vision loss.
-
Comparing tube positions in glaucoma implants to protect corneal cells
This trial compares two tube placements for glaucoma drainage implants to see which better protects corneal cells and controls eye pressure in people with uncontrolled glaucoma.
-
Automated topographic test for glaucoma detection and progression
A new automated method uses topographic structure-function mapping to help diagnose glaucoma earlier and track its progression in patients.
-
Using AI on eye scans and genes to predict glaucoma risk
This project uses artificial intelligence on eye scans, vision tests, and genetic information to find people most likely to develop or have worsening glaucoma.
-
AI-based glaucoma screening in community health centers
A new, easy-to-use AI screening approach will be tested in federally funded health centers to help identify people at risk for glaucoma, especially in communities with higher risk.
-
Understanding how glaucoma genes control eye cell function
A long-term research project will study how genetic factors affect eye cells in adults with glaucoma to uncover new ideas for protecting vision.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.