Medical Field: Ophthalmology
Award: Finalist
Country: Croatia
Year: 2024
Research Work: A Novel Time-Aware Deep Learning Model Predicting Myopia in Children and Adolescents
Published in: Ophthalmology Science (American Academy of Ophthalmology)

I am driven by curiosity and a deep desire to make a meaningful impact, potentially shaping the future of people's health. The excitement of discovery fuels my energy, knowing that my work can enhance life quality and expand knowledge.

 

Ana Maria Varošanec, MD, FEBO is currently finalizing her ophthalmology and optometry residency at University Hospital Sveti Duh in Zagreb, Croatia.

Dr. Ana Maria Varošanec, MD, FEBO, is completing her ophthalmology and optometry residency at University Hospital "Sveti Duh" in Zagreb, Croatia, with a special focus on the anterior segment and myopia. She has trained at leading ophthalmology centers across Europe, gaining expertise in advanced diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

A graduate of the University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Dr. Varošanec was recognized with multiple Dean’s Awards for her academic and research excellence. She is currently (February 2025) finalizing her PhD thesis on myopia, further solidifying her expertise in this field. Her research, published in esteemed peer-reviewed journals, explores myopia progression and genetic determinants in ophthalmology.

An active member of professional ophthalmology organizations, she has presented at international conferences, earning recognition for her clinical and scientific contributions. Passionate about public health, she also develops educational resources to promote children’s vision health.

Revolutionizing myopia management: AI-powered prediction for early intervention

Dr. Ana Maria Varošanec’s research addresses the growing public health challenge of myopia, a condition projected to affect a significant portion of the global population by 2050. Without proper management, myopia can lead to severe complications, including vision-threatening conditions and blindness. Her study introduces the first global artificial intelligence RNN model capable of accurately predicting myopia progression up to seven years in advance. By identifying high-risk individuals early, this breakthrough enables timely interventions and improved management strategies. 

The model’s ability to handle irregular data enhances its real-world applicability, offering more precise, personalized care. Additionally, it fills a crucial gap in European myopia research, paving the way for more effective treatments and better patient outcomes worldwide.

Shaping the future of eye health: dedication to myopia research

For Dr. Varošanec, curiosity and a deep desire to make a meaningful impact are the driving forces behind her work. The excitement of discovery fuels her passion, knowing that her research can enhance life quality and expand scientific knowledge. She thrives on tackling intellectual challenges and solving complex problems, finding inspiration in collaboration with esteemed colleagues and personal growth through overcoming obstacles. Her commitment to medicine stems from a profound dedication to helping others, drawn to the unique blend of science, problem-solving, and compassion that defines her profession. For her, contributing to a greater purpose makes the research journey both fulfilling and deeply rewarding.