Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is improving the early detection of bowel cancer, according to a study by Newcastle University. The research, called the COLO-DETECT trial, involved over 2,000 patients across 10 centers in England and showed that AI can better identify abnormal growths that could turn into cancer.
The trial used the GI Genius AI device, which works with existing colonoscopy equipment to highlight potential polyps. This technology helped doctors find more small and flat polyps that are often missed. Detecting these early signs is crucial because removing them can prevent them from developing into cancer.
Professor Colin Rees, who led the study, said the results are life-saving. He believes that using AI in colonoscopies can make a significant difference in stopping bowel cancer early. The AI system continues to improve as it learns from the data it processes, making it more effective over time.
The study involved splitting patients into two groups: one using the AI-enhanced colonoscopy and the other using traditional methods. The AI highlighted potential polyps with a green box on the screen, helping clinicians decide whether to remove them.
With around 43,000 new cases of bowel cancer in the UK each year, Professor Rees hopes this AI technology will become more widely used to save lives. He emphasized that bowel cancer develops slowly, over 10 to 15 years, giving plenty of time to catch it early and prevent it from becoming deadly.
Source: healthcare-in-europe
