Artificial intelligence (AI) is a complex and multifaceted concept that is increasingly integrated into daily life, from recommendation systems to healthcare. However, its application raises concerns about inequality and public health. AI, while promising, can perpetuate existing biases and inequalities if not carefully managed. Research indicates that AI systems trained on biased data can reinforce societal inequalities, leading to unfair outcomes in areas such as healthcare, criminal justice, and economic opportunities. The use of AI in public health must be approached with caution to avoid exacerbating existing disparities, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. AI has the potential to improve public health by enabling more efficient data analysis and policy-making. However, it is crucial to ensure that AI is used in a way that promotes equity and fairness. Collaboration between public health professionals, computer scientists, and other stakeholders is essential to develop AI applications that are inclusive and beneficial for all communities. The CIFAR AI for Public Health Equity report emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to address the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in public health. While AI offers significant potential for sustainable development and public health improvements, it also poses risks of increasing inequality. Governments, media, and leaders must work together to develop effective global strategies to address these challenges. The role of public health is to harness the benefits of AI while carefully considering its potential unintended consequences, ensuring that AI contributes to a more equitable and just society.Artificial intelligence (AI) is a complex and multifaceted concept that is increasingly integrated into daily life, from recommendation systems to healthcare. However, its application raises concerns about inequality and public health. AI, while promising, can perpetuate existing biases and inequalities if not carefully managed. Research indicates that AI systems trained on biased data can reinforce societal inequalities, leading to unfair outcomes in areas such as healthcare, criminal justice, and economic opportunities. The use of AI in public health must be approached with caution to avoid exacerbating existing disparities, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. AI has the potential to improve public health by enabling more efficient data analysis and policy-making. However, it is crucial to ensure that AI is used in a way that promotes equity and fairness. Collaboration between public health professionals, computer scientists, and other stakeholders is essential to develop AI applications that are inclusive and beneficial for all communities. The CIFAR AI for Public Health Equity report emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to address the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in public health. While AI offers significant potential for sustainable development and public health improvements, it also poses risks of increasing inequality. Governments, media, and leaders must work together to develop effective global strategies to address these challenges. The role of public health is to harness the benefits of AI while carefully considering its potential unintended consequences, ensuring that AI contributes to a more equitable and just society.