When Science Finds a Way

Can new technology help predict psychosis?

Listen on

Episode notes

Psychosis is one of the most severe, and most stigmatised, mental health conditions. But what if technology could help us spot the signs early on? Could more accurate prediction help guide earlier intervention, to produce better outcomes for people at risk of psychosis? Alisha is in discussion with Professor Iris Sommer, a global leader in the psychosis field to examine exactly where the understanding of the condition is, whether we’re approaching treatment in an equitable way, and how we can ensure earlier diagnosis and better treatment.  

They hear from a therapist in Brazil, Dr Alexandre Loch, and his patient Tammy about how hard a diagnosis can be, and why it can often come too late to prevent the onset of severe symptoms. Alexandre also shares his innovative work using AI to spot whether someone might be at risk of developing psychosis, hinting at a potentially transformative breakthrough. 

When Science Finds a Way is brought to you by Wellcome, an independent global foundation that supports science to solve the urgent health challenges facing everyone. For more information visit www.wellcome.org/news-and-reports/podcast.