THE Health Ministry is open to exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for disease detection, especially cancer, in public hospitals, says Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.

In a parliamentary written reply, the Health Minister said such a move will be considered once AI tools in the field are proven safe, effective and cost- efficient.

“AI technology holds significant potential in enhancing the capabilities of healthcare systems, especially in diagnosing and detecting diseases like cancer at an early stage.

“However, the benefits and potential of this technology must be carefully assessed to ensure that AI is truly impactful and safe to use within the country’s healthcare system,” he said.

Dzulkefly was replying to a question from Wong Chen (PH-Subang) on whether the Health Ministry is considering AI for cancer detection in public hospitals.

He explained that the ministry’s Malaysian Health Technology Assessment Section (Mahtas), part of the Medical Development Division, has conducted several assessments of AI applications in cancer detection.

“Mahtas has also evaluated other AI-related technologies, such as early tuberculosis detection using chest X-rays and portable ultrasound applications integrated with AI,” he said.

Currently, the unit is assessing AI’s role in screening for lung cancer, breast cancer and cervical cancer.

In relation to lung cancer, Dzulkefly noted that the ministry has been assessing the effectiveness of AI in aiding radiologists with the detection of lung cancer through chest X-rays.

Field testing is underway at the National Cancer Institute, with plans to extend it to Hospital Cyberjaya, Hospital Kajang and Hospital Putrajaya.

Initial findings suggest that AI algorithms have improved sensitivity and reduced false-positive rates, particularly among junior radiologists.

“The study has also suggested that AI could serve as a ‘second reader’ to enhance the accuracy and timeliness of lung nodule detection,” Dzulkefly added.

For breast cancer screening, he said while initial findings highlight AI’s potential to support mammogram screenings, the available evidence remains limited.

Similar to this, the ministry is investigating the potential of AI in the early detection of cervical cancer through medical imaging, but more research is required to confirm the efficacy of this technology in cervical cancer screening.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/11/21/cancer-detection-using-ai-at-hospitals-possible