How AI is being used in breast cancer screenings

It’s well known that breast cancer screening is an important tool to help women maintain their health. Breast cancer is easier to treat successfully if it’s caught early, when it’s small and hasn’t spread.

Early cancer detection even sooner

Recently, healthcare providers have started using artificial intelligence (AI) to help interpret the results of breast cancer screenings. This new technology is helping doctors spot signs of cancer earlier and more accurately, which can improve the chances for successful treatment.

AI is being used to analyze mammograms and other breast images and note small changes or irregularities that might have been overlooked otherwise, improving early detection rates. Some AI tools have found cancers that were missed in previous screenings.

AI can better identify breast cancer risk

AI can also be used to better predict breast cancer risk in women with dense breast tissue, allowing for more personalized care.

AI can also help to reduce the number of false positives - cases where something looks suspicious but is actually harmless. That can keep patients from having to have unnecessary additional exams or biopsies. And because AI can work quickly, it helps doctors review images faster, giving them more time to focus on patient care.

In the future, AI may even be able to help predict who is at higher risk for breast cancer, allowing for more personalized screening plans. It’s also being used in places with fewer medical resources, helping more people get the care they need.

Ready for a screening?

If you’re due for a screening, or have questions about how AI might be used in your care, talk to your healthcare provider.