E D I T O R ' S Q U E S T I O N
Advancements in digital health technologies continue to contribute to the evolution of cancer care . They can improve the accuracy and efficiency of diagnosis , which ultimately leads to earlier treatment and consequently a better patient outcome .
There are many digital technology innovations that are making a difference , but I will focus on two examples , digital cytology and AI in breast cancer screening , where we have seen positive steps recently .
We have seen first-hand the positive impact of AI-guided imaging with the UK ’ s first pilot of digital cytology in cervical cancer screening at University Hospital Monklands .
The technology rapidly reviews test slides providing the screener with the most diagnostically relevant cells .
The initial results are promising with the hospital reporting increased capacity in slide assessment and improved analysis turnaround times .
Allan Wilson , Consultant Biomedical Scientist at
NHS Lanarkshire , who led the pilot project , commented on the possibilities of the technology in allowing screeners to dedicate more time to training on the latest technologies and dealing with difficult-to-diagnose cases .
He also noted that it increases the confidence women can have in cervical cancer screening and reduces the likelihood of a false negative so any pre-cancerous changes can be picked up and treated earlier before they become cancerous .
In terms of the advancement in detecting breast cancer , the most common cancer worldwide , we are seeing a lot of potential with digital breast tomosynthesis ( DBT ), which has been shown to detect more invasive breast cancers compared with traditional 2D mammography .
Its potential is augmented by incorporating AI , which boosts efficiency and accurate diagnosis . Based on a comparison with the average time taken to read a breast screening image , the use of AI could mean up to 13 % less time is needed to read a mammogram . Radiologists would be able to report more cases per day and the efficiency with which images are reviewed would be improved resulting in significant overall time savings for clinicians .
Ultimately , by introducing digital health advancements we have the potential to improve cancer care and health outcomes while enhancing NHS efficiencies . I am excited to see how far innovations can advance cancer care in the years to come . �
TIM SIMPSON
GENERAL MANAGER HOLOGIC UK AND IRELAND
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