Introduction to the Special Issue on Transforming Prevention Science: Advances and Applications of Artificial...

Artificial intelligence (AI) has had an unprecedented impact on several aspects of the human condition and is increasingly being incorporated into research endeavors. AI and related research methods hold great promise for the prevention science field. This special issue, "Transforming Prevention Science: Advances and Applications of Artificial Intelligence and Related Methods," features several examples of the application of, and technical development in, AI and other research methods and technologies. The current paper introduces this special issue, which was launched through an open call issued in August 2024. The goal of the special issue was to bring together original empirical, methodological, and conceptual papers on the use of AI and machine learning in prevention research and practice. The papers are organized into four cross-cutting themes: (a) use of AI for prevention-relevant risk stratification across universal, selective, and indicated prevention; (b) use of AI to improve prevention services, programs, and intervention delivery; (c) use of AI as a research methodology and tool; and (d) frameworks, ethics, equity, and infrastructure for responsible AI use in prevention science. Equity, community engagement, and methodological transparency cut across all four themes. This introductory paper closes with a discussion of cross-cutting methodological and measurement considerations and priorities for the field, including the implications of large language models for prevention research conducted during and after the issue's submission window.