Artificial Intelligence in Skin Cancer Diagnosis: The Future of Early Detection
Introduction
In the past year, we’ve seen remarkable achievements across AI-assisted cancer diagnosis as more and more clinicians test, use and integrate AI companions into daily practice.
AI for Skin Cancer Diagnosis
A 2024 study led by researchers at Stanford Medicine compared the performance of clinicians diagnosing at least one skin cancer with and without deep learning-based AI assistance. In an experimental environment, clinicians without AI assistance achieved an average sensitivity of 74.8% while for AI-assisted clinicians, sensitivity was around 81.1%. What’s intriguing is AI helped medical professionals at all levels, with the largest improvement seen among non-dermatologists.
AI Can Impact Behaviour Change
Cancer is on the rise among younger people. According to a study published in BMJ Oncology, the number of under-50s worldwide being diagnosed with cancer has risen by nearly 80% in three decades. And, over the last decade melanoma skin cancer incidence rates have increased by almost two-fifths (38%) with Spain seeing a steady incidence increase of 2.4% during this time.
If detected early enough, skin cancer is easily treated and prognosis is very good. But busy lives and competing concerns mean fewer people are getting checked out, resulting in delays to diagnosis and treatment, which is dramatically changing the survival rates. Those who do, often wait to speak to a doctor. In fact, new research from Bupa, Attitudes Towards Digital Healthcare, indicates only 9% of people would immediately go to get a mole they were concerned about examined by a professional.
However, the same research found that if people were able to have a mole assessed by an AI-powered phone app at the time of their choosing, that percentage increases more than threefold (33%). This signifies emerging technology can have a significant impact on positive behaviour change in healthcare and improve clinical outcome of a potentially severe disease.
Bupa’s At-Home Dermatology Tool
At Bupa, we see lots of opportunities to use AI and are exploring its use to enhance patient care, improve operational efficiency, and help our customers to live longer, healthier and happier lives. We know that people want their healthcare partner to be by their side, not just when they are sick, but supporting them constantly to keep them well.
The Future of Healthcare: Early Detection
Digital healthcare, together with AI, is going to play a crucial role in removing the barriers that stop people from getting health concerns like moles checked out in a timely manner, promoting positive behaviour change that can save lives. This is why Bupa’s at-home dermatology tool is especially useful in today’s fast-paced world where convenience is paramount and virtual consultations and at-home tests will empower individuals to prioritise their health, without the need to sacrifice their time.
Conclusion
The use of AI in skin cancer diagnosis is a significant step forward in improving patient outcomes and promoting early detection. By using AI-powered tools and technology, we can give people the power to take control of their health and make informed decisions about their well-being.
FAQs
- What is the average sensitivity of clinicians diagnosing skin cancer with AI assistance?
The average sensitivity of clinicians diagnosing skin cancer with AI assistance is around 81.1%. - How can AI-powered phone apps impact positive behaviour change in healthcare?
AI-powered phone apps can increase the percentage of people who would immediately get a mole checked out by a professional from 9% to more than threefold (33%). - What is Bupa’s at-home dermatology tool?
Bupa’s at-home dermatology tool is a digital healthcare service that allows customers to take high-resolution photos of skin lesions and have them assessed using AI, which can help diagnose skin cancer and promote early detection.
