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In 2023, various studies into artificial intelligence (AI) indicated it could play a role in the earlier detection of serious health problems, such as breast cancer and Parkinson's disease.

Despite these findings, officials warned the medical field should approach AI with caution and healthcare workers shouldn't become too reliant on the technology. Specialists also pointed out the use of AI should come with safeguards to catch and handle diagnoses made in error.

Right now, there are still many questions surrounding AI and the impacts it'll have on various industries. In the meantime, the World Health Organization recently came out, urging for regulatory action on AI use in the healthcare field.

The WHO on mixing healthcare with AI

In formal recommendations concerning the use of AI, the World Health Organization stated that developing nations aren't moving as quickly as America and Europe to establish concrete AI regulations.

This could be problematic, the agency contends, as the private sector becomes more enmeshed with AI and willing to use it for streamlining various tasks and operations.

One real concern here is the potential for AI to inflict damage upon individuals. The WHO feels governments across the world should prepare for this ahead of time with specific liability rules.

What do Americans think?

So far, the data shows more than six in ten Americans agree that the government should implement AI regulations. Only 37% oppose putting official guidelines in place to ensure this technology is appropriately handled.

Most arguments in favor of governmental AI regulations boil down to making the most of its upsides, while preventing and/or containing any adverse impacts. As the technology continues to evolve, governments may find themselves constantly having to reevaluate different rules and guidelines.

Generative AI is a prime example of this, amid lawsuits from companies alleging wrongful use of copyrighted materials. While OpenAI asserts that using web material to train generative AI doesn't breach copyright protections, publications like the New York Times disagree and are therefore battling it out in court.

As artificial intelligence continues to evolve and expand, the public can likely anticipate more legal disputes and calls for regulations.