The NHS is initiating a pilot program to enhance prostate cancer diagnosis by employing artificial intelligence (AI). This trial will involve analyzing 10,000 MRI scans across up to 15 hospitals nationwide, with the potential for broader implementation if successful.
The AI system is designed to quickly interpret MRI scans for men who may have prostate cancer, identifying potential lesions within minutes. If the software detects a scan that suggests a high risk of cancer, it will be forwarded to a radiologist for expedited review, and the patient will be scheduled for a biopsy on the same day.
This advancement is expected to significantly reduce the waiting period for patients, who currently may wait months for results. Instead, patients could receive either a clear result on the same day or a diagnosis within a few days. Under existing best practices, patients referred urgently by their general practitioners are supposed to have an MRI and biopsy completed within a week, although actual wait times can vary based on radiologist availability.
Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, remarked, “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.” He emphasized that leveraging technology could transform the NHS and improve outcomes for patients while providing timely support for healthcare professionals.
Professor Peter Johnson, the national clinical director for cancer at NHS England, expressed enthusiasm about the potential for AI to accelerate cancer diagnosis. He indicated that the trial of this AI-driven “one-day diagnostics” approach could be a pivotal development in reducing anxiety and uncertainty for patients. “As with all cancers, speed is crucial – the quicker the diagnosis, the sooner treatment can begin and help give the best chance of treatment being successful for patients and their families,” he added.
According to Prostate Cancer UK, prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer among men, with approximately one in eight men likely to be diagnosed during their lifetime. The statistics show a significant increase in diagnoses, with over 58,000 cases reported in England in 2024, compared to around 53,000 the previous year. Meanwhile, in Wales, the number of diagnoses decreased slightly.
The AI tool, known as Pi, was developed by Lucida Medical and is set to be introduced ahead of the forthcoming National Cancer Plan from the government, which is anticipated to be unveiled later this year. Amy Rylance, an assistant director at Prostate Cancer UK, noted that recent advancements in MRI technology and targeted biopsies have already made the diagnostic process safer and more precise. She believes the AI tool could further enhance this process, alleviating prolonged anxiety for patients and easing the burden on NHS staff.
