AI Trial Targets Faster Breast Cancer Diagnoses for 700,000 Women in the UK
The £11 million EDITH trial will use AI to assist radiologists, aiming to reduce delays and improve early detection through a nationwide pilot at 30 NHS sites.
- The EDITH trial, backed by £11 million in funding, will test AI-assisted mammogram analysis for nearly 700,000 women aged 50-70 across 30 NHS sites in the UK.
- AI technology will replace one of the two radiologists traditionally required to analyze scans, addressing a national shortage of radiologists and reducing diagnostic delays.
- Health officials and experts believe the trial could accelerate early detection of breast cancer, improve patient outcomes, and alleviate pressure on NHS resources.
- The trial is part of a broader effort to combat long-standing issues in cancer care, with a national cancer plan set to be unveiled later this year to enhance diagnosis and treatment.
- While the potential of AI is widely acknowledged, experts caution that its adoption must include rigorous oversight and patient trust to ensure safety and effectiveness.