Groundbreaking Canadian AI Technology Revolutionizes Early Detection of ALS

In a remarkable stride towards advancing healthcare, Canadian innovators have unveiled a groundbreaking artificial intelligence (AI) program to transform the early detection of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Canada (MTP-CA) takes immense pride in supporting this revolutionary AI technology, which harnesses the power of AI to scrutinize de-identified electronic medical records (EMRs). This innovation is poised to significantly aid healthcare professionals (HCPs) in identifying individuals requiring follow-up investigations for ALS or referral to specialized centers.

“Progressive ALS Detection”

The initiative, aptly named “Progressive ALS Detection” (PAD), relies on the MNd-5 algorithm—a clinical algorithm developed specifically for this purpose. Its primary objective is to empower HCPs with timely insights for follow-up testing or specialist referrals, thus enhancing the quality of care for individuals at risk of ALS.

The importance of early detection

Dr. Angela Genge, the Executive Director of the ALS Centre of Excellence at The Neuro in Montreal, underscores the importance of early detection: “Early diagnosis and intervention in ALS are paramount for improving patient outcomes. However, the elusive nature of this disease often results in delayed diagnosis. The PAD initiative, powered by AI, is a game-changer. It equips HCPs with the tools to identify potential ALS cases sooner, facilitating expedited follow-ups, diagnoses, and treatment when necessary.”

ALS

ALS, commonly called Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a relentless neurodegenerative condition with no known cure. Its progression can be alarmingly rapid, further emphasizing the urgency of early diagnosis. In Canada, the average time to receive an ALS diagnosis is 21 months, leaving patients with limited treatment options. Tragically, most individuals with ALS succumb to the disease within three years of symptom onset.

The MNd-5 algorithm serves as a vital clinical decision-support tool for community neurologists. It aims to identify individuals who warrant follow-up investigations for ALS or referral to specialized centers. This is achieved by comparing patient characteristics and electromyography (EMG) findings with a reference population of ALS-diagnosed patients and a group of community neurology patients in whom ALS or similar motor neuron diseases were not initially suspected. The algorithm is deployed at the Toronto Data Lab of Ensho Health and is accessible to approximately 80% of community neurologists through integrations with various electronic medical record systems, including Epic, Cerner, Accuro, OscarPro, Indivicare, Mediquest, and others.

Andy Zylak, President of Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Canada, emphasizes the urgency of initiatives like PAD: “Time is of the essence for individuals living with ALS. Pioneering efforts such as the Progressive ALS Detection initiative are indispensable in ensuring timely diagnoses for those affected by this devastating disease. We are proud to support this crucial AI technology, underscoring our unwavering commitment to scientific innovation, collaboration with HCPs, and meeting the needs of the ALS community.”

The Progressive ALS Detection initiative is a collaborative endeavor between MTP-CA and a distinguished Steering Committee comprising Dr. Angela Genge, Dr. Amer A. Ghavanini, Division Head of Neurology at Trillium Health Partners, and Dr. Amanda Fiander, Neurologist at Maritime Neurology.

For more detailed information about the Progressive ALS Detection initiative, please visit here.

About Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Canada, Inc.

Headquartered in Toronto, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Canada, Inc. (MTP-CA) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, Inc. (MTPA). Its mission is to provide cutting-edge therapies for some of the most challenging-to-treat diseases, including ALS. For further insights, please visit www.mt-pharma-ca.com.

About Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, Inc.

Situated in Jersey City, N.J., Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, Inc. (MTPA) operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation (MTPC). Established by MTPC, its primary focus is to develop, advance pipelines, and commercialize approved pharmaceutical products in North America. For more information, feel free to visit www.mt-pharma-america.com or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

SOURCE Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Canada, Inc.