Mia is a newly developed AI tool being used to detect hidden symptoms of breast cancer - she took six years to build and train, using millions of mammograms from a wide range of women. Trialled alongside NHS radiologists, Mia was able to examine 10,000 mammograms and identify an extra eleven that had been missed by the doctors.
As a result, these patients are now able to have their breast cancer diagnosed and treated much faster than normal. This is crucial, as early discovery means smaller tumours, and this means a 90% chance of survival in the years following. Kherion, the developer of this technology, believes that this tool has the potential to reduce the waiting time for results from 14 days to 3, as Mia works immediately. A breast cancer doctor reviews on average 5000 scans a year – if Mia continues to operate in hospitals, it will allow the doctors a reduced workload and more time with the patients.
Early discovery means smaller tumours, and this means a 90% chance of survival in the years following.
“C the signs” is another program that is proving successful in NHS trials. Currently being used in 1400 practices across England, it has raised the rate of cancer detection from 58.7% to 66.0% in clinics using it. Unlike Mia, this system is able to access the patients medical history to create a better picture of potential symptoms and diagnosis, as well as tracking patients and reminding doctors to check test results.
The NHS England Long Term Plan for Cancer is that by the year 2028, 55,000 patients will survive for five years or more post diagnosis, and that 75% of all cancers will be diagnosed by stage 1 or 2. Although still in the early stages, these AI technologies will hopefully play an important role in achieving this goal.
