The issue of the “diagnostic lag” - the significant amount of time it takes for patients with rare diseases to receive a diagnosis and begin treatment - is a pressing concern that directly affects the lives and quality of life of many patients I have encountered in both clinical and research settings. While medical advancements have been remarkable, many barriers remain before they translate into benefits for patients in routine clinical practice.

Throughout my career, I have listened carefully to each and every patient and closely observed the realities of diagnosis and treatment on the front lines. Through this experience, I have come to recognize the significance and potential of collaboration across boundaries - between healthcare professionals, researchers, companies, patient advocacy groups, and government agencies. In particular, I believe that implementing cutting-edge technologies, such as AI, in clinical settings while taking ethical and social considerations into account - and thereby paving the way for a brighter future for patients - is the mission we must undertake right now.

ATTR-CM is a disease where a “diagnostic lag” poses a significant challenge, as its symptoms resemble those of heart disease, making it difficult for physicians to identify it.

To address this societal challenge, this consortium was launched in December 2025, focusing on AI-based diagnostic support tools and operating under a collaborative framework involving diverse stakeholders.

We will join hands with patients, their families, healthcare professionals, companies and government agencies, and work together toward a future where appropriate diagnosis and treatment are provided at an early stage.