GLAAM and GLAAI: Pioneering attention models for robust automated cataract detection

Background and Objective:

Early detection of eye diseases, especially cataracts, is essential for preventing vision impairment. Accurate and cost-effective cataract diagnosis often requires advanced methods. This study proposes novel deep learning models that integrate global and local attention mechanisms into MobileNet and InceptionV3 architectures to improve cataract detection from fundus images.

Methods:

Two deep learning models, Global–Local Attention Augmented MobileNet (GLAAM) and Global–Local Attention Augmented InceptionV3 (GLAAI), were developed to enhance the analysis of fundus images. The models incorporate a combined attention mechanism to effectively capture deteriorated regions in retinal images. Data augmentation techniques were employed to prevent overfitting during training and testing on two cataract datasets. Additionally, Grad-CAM visualizations were used to increase interpretability by highlighting key regions influencing predictions.

Results:

The GLAAM model achieved a balanced accuracy of 97.08%, an average precision of 97.11%, and an F1-score of 97.12% on the retinal dataset. Grad-CAM visualizations confirmed the models’ ability to identify crucial cataract-related regions in fundus images.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates a significant advancement in cataract diagnosis using deep learning, with GLAAM and GLAAI models exhibiting strong diagnostic performance. These models have the potential to enhance diagnostic tools and improve patient care by offering a cost-effective and accurate solution for cataract detection, suitable for integration into clinical settings.