Sunday, 13 July 2025
29.1 C
Singapore
35.5 C
Thailand
27.3 C
Indonesia
28.6 C
Philippines

MIT experts create AI models for early detection of pancreatic cancer

MIT develops AI models for early pancreatic cancer detection, showcasing PRISM's ability to outperform current methods and indicating a promising future for AI in healthcare.

In a significant advancement for early cancer detection, researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed two artificial intelligence (AI) models capable of identifying pancreatic cancer more effectively than current methods. Operating under MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), these models form the PRISM neural network, focusing specifically on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the most common type of pancreatic cancer.

PRISM’s enhanced diagnostic capability

The traditional methods of PDAC screening identify about 10 per cent of cases. However, PRISM has remarkably improved, successfully identifying PDAC in 35 per cent of cases. This leap in detection rates is a noteworthy achievement in medical diagnostics.

PRISM’s development is unique because it uses a vast array of electronic health records from various US health institutions. The AI was trained on data from over five million patient records, a scale of information unprecedented in this research area. According to Kai Jia, a senior author of the paper and PhD candidate at MIT CSAIL, “The model uses routine clinical and lab data to make its predictions, and the diversity of the US population is a significant advancement over other PDAC models.”

The journey and motivation behind PRISM

The project began over six years ago, driven by the reality that approximately 80 per cent of pancreatic cancer patients are diagnosed at advanced stages. By analysing patient demographics, previous diagnoses, medication history, and lab results, PRISM aims to predict cancer probability. This comprehensive approach to data analysis enables the AI to assess risk factors and patient age.

PRISM’s use is limited to MIT labs and select US patients. The challenge lies in scaling the AI to handle more diverse data sets, potentially including global health profiles, to make it widely accessible.

Broader impact and future of AI in cancer detection

MIT’s venture into AI-assisted cancer detection isn’t new. The institution previously developed AI models for predicting breast cancer risk using mammogram records. These projects underscore the importance of diverse data sets for enhancing AI’s diagnostic accuracy across various races and populations.

The development of AI models like PRISM is set to revolutionise cancer diagnostics. Early detection could significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on medical professionals. With tech giants like IBM showing interest in AI for cancer prediction, the future of diagnostics looks set to undergo a transformative shift.

Hot this week

Singapore to get Huawei’s 480kW ultra-fast EV charger by the end of 2025

Huawei brings 480kW ultra-fast EV charger to Singapore by late 2025, slashing charge times and boosting support for commercial vehicles.

Apple COO Jeff Williams to retire, Sabih Khan named successor

Apple COO Jeff Williams to retire later this year; Sabih Khan to take over as the company prepares for a smooth executive transition.

Epson launches WorkForce Pro EM-C8100/C8101 multifunction printers in Singapore

Epson launches the WorkForce Pro EM-C8100/C8101 in Singapore, offering high-speed printing and eco-friendly features for modern offices.

Google introduces photo-to-video feature in Gemini

Google adds a photo-to-video tool in Gemini, letting users create animated clips with sound using AI, now available to Pro and Ultra subscribers.

Samsung’s Galaxy Watch8 series introduces sleep apnoea detection and smart design changes

Samsung’s Galaxy Watch8 adds sleep apnoea detection, health upgrades, and classic design choices ahead of its August 1 release in Singapore.

OpenAI preparing to launch AI-powered web browser to rival Chrome

OpenAI plans to launch a new AI-powered web browser, aiming to transform the browsing experience using ChatGPT technology.

Singapore to get Huawei’s 480kW ultra-fast EV charger by the end of 2025

Huawei brings 480kW ultra-fast EV charger to Singapore by late 2025, slashing charge times and boosting support for commercial vehicles.

Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm share their vision for where mobile AI is heading

Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm share how mobile AI will become more helpful, personal, and invisible in your everyday life.

Razer unveils DeathAdder V4 Pro with pro-level features and ultra-lightweight design

Razer’s DeathAdder V4 Pro lands with 8000Hz wireless polling, a lighter design, and esports-level precision for serious gamers.

Related Articles

Popular Categories