Cloud based voice algorithms could help detect Parkinson’s

The research study was developed by mathematician Max Little, who realised that a person's voice is affected by the disease as much as their limbs. He claims the method is quick, cheap and easy to perform. Using Aculab Cloud, The Parkinson's Voice Initiative purchased a range of telephone numbers and created an application that plays pre recorded questions and exercises for the caller. These responses are recorded and later analysed using complex algorithms. Faye McClenahan, head of strategic marketing at Aculab, commented: "We are very pleased to be contributing towards such an important study. With so many people affected by Parkinson's, it's likely we all know someone who could benefit from the results of this project, which is a good example of the breadth of applications for which the Aculab Cloud telephony platform can be used." Parkinson's disease affects approximately 6.3million people. Existing tests to detect it are said to be expensive, time consuming and logistically difficult.