Artificial Intelligence in Cancer Control: New Applications and Real Results

Chances are you’ve been hearing the buzz about artificial intelligence (AI) and machines taking over the world. Ok, that’s a bit extreme. But it seems that AI is everywhere these days, in things like wacky AI-generated photos and fake voices reading your online news. In reality, AI has been around for much longer than you may think, and its applications are far more vast and potentially useful than many understand.

For example, AI is significantly improving cancer screening and early detection capabilities. Advanced image analysis techniques enable more accurate and efficient screening for various cancers, including breast, lung, and prostate cancers. AI algorithms can detect subtle patterns and abnormalities in medical images that may be missed by human observers – radiologists and other doctors – potentially leading to earlier cancer diagnoses. AI can help radiologists have a second review of images, giving them more time to interact with patients and filling gaps when professional shortages may exist.

Machine learning models are also being developed to predict cancer risk based on population-level data, paving the way for improved early detection strategies. For example, researchers funded by the National Cancer Institute are working on an AI project to predict a person’s risk of pancreatic cancer – a cancer that can be hard to detect in its early stages. This could dramatically change the survival rate for this cancer.  

In treatment, AI is helping physicians to create more precise treatment plans for radiation therapy, predict patient responses to specific cancer drugs, and improve personalized, precision treatment.

AI is also accelerating cancer drug discovery and development. It can be used to analyze large datasets to identify potential drug targets, predict drug efficacy, simulate molecular interactions and predict drug responses, and help researchers analyze and synthesize scientific literature.

When it comes to patient care, AI-powered chatbots can be used to help triage patients and direct them to resources or tools. They can also help automate administrative tasks, such as taking a doctor’s notes from a patient visit, allowing the physician more one-on-one time caring for the patient.

While AI shows great promise in cancer control, it's important to note that human expertise remains crucial. AI tools are designed to augment and support healthcare professionals, not replace them. As the field continues to evolve, ongoing research and ethical considerations will be essential to ensure the responsible and effective implementation of AI in cancer control.

Note: This blog article was written by a person, but the research was done with the help of AI.