The NHS has initiated a groundbreaking trial aimed at providing same-day diagnoses for prostate cancer through the use of artificial intelligence (AI). This pilot program will evaluate 10,000 scans across as many as 15 hospitals nationwide, with plans for a broader rollout if the trial proves successful.
The innovative AI technology will analyze MRI scans of men suspected of having prostate cancer, enabling the detection of lesions within minutes. If the system identifies a scan as high-risk for cancer, it will promptly be referred to a radiologist for immediate review, allowing the patient to be scheduled for a biopsy the same day. This approach aims to minimize the waiting period for results, potentially offering patients the all-clear or a diagnosis within days instead of enduring months of uncertainty.
Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, expressed concern over the challenges posed by prostate cancer, which affects thousands of men annually. He stated, “Prostate cancer is a devastating disease impacting thousands of men every year – and what makes this already incredibly challenging situation worse for these men are long waits for test results, diagnosis, and treatment – it”s needlessly distressing for them and their families.” Streeting emphasized that leveraging technology is key to transforming the NHS and improving patient outcomes.
Professor Peter Johnson, the national clinical director for cancer at NHS England, expressed enthusiasm for the AI”s potential to expedite cancer diagnoses. He remarked, “We”re really excited by the potential of artificial intelligence to speed up cancer diagnosis, and we hope this trial of an AI-powered “one-day diagnostics” could be a game changer and help save men weeks of worry and uncertainty.” Johnson highlighted the importance of swift diagnosis in cancer treatment success.
Prostate cancer remains the most prevalent cancer among men, with approximately one in eight men likely to face this diagnosis in their lifetime, according to Prostate Cancer UK. Data from the National Prostate Cancer Audit indicated that 58,218 men in England were diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2024, a rise from the previous year. In Wales, 2,402 men were diagnosed in 2023, down from 2,551 in 2022.
The AI tool, known as Pi, has been created by Lucida Medical and is being introduced ahead of the Government”s upcoming National Cancer Plan, anticipated to be released later this year. Amy Rylance, assistant director of health improvement at Prostate Cancer UK, praised the advancements in diagnosis accuracy and safety within the NHS, stating that the AI tool could significantly alleviate patient anxiety and reduce unnecessary hospital visits while enhancing the capacity of healthcare professionals.
