Genetic Algorithm-based Convolutional Neural Network Feature Engineering for Optimizing Coronary Heart Disease Prediction Performance

Objectives This study aimed to optimize early coronary heart disease (CHD) prediction using a genetic algorithm (GA)-based convolutional neural network (CNN) feature engineering approach. We sought to overcome the limitations of traditional hyperparameter optimization techniques by leveraging a GA for superior predictive performance in CHD detection. Methods Utilizing a GA for hyperparameter optimization, we navigated a complex combinatorial space to identify optimal configurations for a CNN model. We also employed information gain for feature selection optimization, transforming the CHD datasets into an image-like input for the CNN architecture. The efficacy of this method was benchmarked against traditional optimization strategies. Results The advanced GA-based CNN model outperformed traditional methods, achieving a substantial increase in accuracy. The optimized model delivered a promising accuracy range, with a peak of 85% in hyperparameter optimization and 100% accuracy when integrated with machine learning algorithms, namely naïve Bayes, support vector machine, decision tree, logistic regression, and random forest, for both binary and multiclass CHD prediction tasks. Conclusions The integration of a GA into CNN feature engineering is a powerful technique for improving the accuracy of CHD predictions. This approach results in a high degree of predictive reliability and can significantly contribute to the field of AI-driven healthcare, with the possibility of clinical deployment for early CHD detection. Future work will focus on expanding the approach to encompass a wider set of CHD data and potential integration with wearable technology for continuous health monitoring.