Exploring the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Sexual and Reproductive Health: Opportunities and Risks
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the UN Special Programme on Human Reproduction (HRP) have released a new technical brief exploring the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). The brief evaluates both the opportunities and risks of this rapidly advancing technology, providing valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in the field.
According to Dr Pascale Allotey, Director of HRP and WHO’s Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health, “AI is already transforming technology for sexual and reproductive health. If we’re aware of the potential dangers, cautious about implementation, and recognize AI as a tool and not a solution, we have a great opportunity to make sexual and reproductive services and information more accessible to all.”
The technical brief, developed through consultation with experts and a scoping review, highlights current applications of AI in SRHR, such as screening and predicting health concerns related to infertility and pregnancy, as well as providing access to information through conversational agents or chatbots. However, the use of AI also poses potential risks, including data privacy concerns, bias in training data sets, unequal global digital access, misinformation, and more.
Dr Jeremy Farrar, Chief Scientist at WHO, emphasizes the importance of thoughtful and deliberative development, governance, and regulation of the AI ecosystem to ensure ethical and equitable distribution. The brief outlines priority actions and considerations for policymakers to mitigate the specific risks of AI in SRHR, including revisiting data protection regulations, ensuring inclusivity in training data, recruiting diverse developers, and addressing misinformation.
Dr Alain Labrique, Director of WHO’s Department of Digital Health and Innovation, stresses the importance of designing AI systems with all stakeholders engaged and ensuring that no one is left behind. By prioritizing equity and inclusivity in the development and application of AI, policymakers and regulators can help uplift everyone and safeguard their rights in the digital age.
