Breast Cancer Screening: Pros And Cons Of AI Technology

Artificial intelligence (AI) can be a promising tool that may revolutionise breast cancer screening. However, this technology offers both advantages and challenges in its implementation. In this article, we explore the pros and cons of employing AI in the early detection of breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Screening In Singapore: A Primer

Breast cancer is a significant health concern among women in Singapore, with statistics indicating that it is the most common cancer among women in the country. According to the Singapore Cancer Registry 2021, breast cancer has 12,735 diagnoses over the latest five years, alone accounting for about 3 in 10 cancer diagnoses in females.

To address this issue, the Singapore Ministry of Health recommends regular mammography screenings for women aged 40 years old and above, with screening intervals typically ranging from one to three years.

What Are The Pros and Cons of Using AI to Screen for Breast Cancer?

According to an article published by Cancer Health, there are significant pros and cons to using AI (apart from radiologists’ readings) to interpret breast cancer screening and minimise false positives. We have listed them below: 

Pros:

• Early Detection – AI models have shown the ability to detect breast cancer at earlier stages, potentially saving lives by enabling prompt treatment initiation. A study of AI mammography in Sweden found that the AI model improved breast cancer detection by 20%. 

• Efficiency Through Automation – AI technologies have the capacity to process vast quantities of mammographic data with unparalleled efficiency. By swiftly reviewing hundreds, if not thousands, of mammograms on a daily basis, AI can swiftly flag suspicious regions warranting further investigation. 

• Reduced False Positives – AI can help minimise the occurrence of false positives. A 2022 Danish study used a combined AI model and saw reduced false positives as a result. 
• Augmented Radiologist Efficiency – AI technology assists radiologists by highlighting suspicious areas in mammograms, streamlining the interpretation process and allowing for more efficient diagnosis.

Cons:

• Patient Diversity Challenges – Concerns from the experts have been raised about the generalizability of AI models across diverse patient populations, necessitating further validation studies to ensure equitable performance.
• Implementation Costs – The initial costs associated with implementing AI technology for breast cancer screening may pose financial barriers for some patients. In the US, patients who opt for an AI analysis may have to spend an additional US$40 and US$100 out of pocket.

Book A Breast Cancer Screening In Singapore

If you are looking to undergo a comprehensive health screening, mammograms are often included in health screening packages for women. Health365 in partnership with trusted healthcare providers in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand offers health screening packages that include mammogram screening. For further questions and inquiries, you may contact us through the button below. 

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