See Lung Cancer with an AI

Simple Summary Lung cancer is the cause of many deaths that could have been avoided if the disease had been detected at an early stage. This is possible thanks to the lung cancer screening (LCS) program with the low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) of the chest. Due to the heavy workload on the healthcare system, shortages of specialists, and expensive equipment, new solutions are needed to support the work of the hospitals. One of the most promising is the use of artificial intelligence (AI). In this paper, we present promising results and discuss whether/why AI application in medicine, with an emphasis on lung cancer, is needed. It is speculated that thanks to an innovative AI solution many lives could be saved. A lot has happened in the field of lung cancer screening in recent months. The ongoing discussion and documentation published by the scientific community and policymakers are of great importance to the entire European community and perhaps beyond. Lung cancer is the main worldwide killer. Low-dose computed tomography-based screening, together with smoking cessation, is the only tool to fight lung cancer, as it has already been proven in the United States of America but also European randomized controlled trials. Screening requires a lot of well-organized specialized work, but it can be supported by artificial intelligence (AI). Here we discuss whether and how to use AI for patients, radiologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and all hospital staff supporting screening process benefits.

Automated summary

Lung cancer is a leading cause of avoidable deaths, and early detection through a lung cancer screening program using low-dose computed tomography is crucial. However, the healthcare system's heavy workload, shortage of specialists, and high costs necessitate new solutions, such as artificial intelligence (AI), to support hospitals. This paper presents promising results and discusses the need for AI in medicine, particularly in the field of lung cancer, to potentially save lives. Recent developments in lung cancer screening have significant implications for the European community and beyond, and AI can support the screening process for the benefit of patients, healthcare professionals, and hospital staff.