AI-Enabled X-Rays Help Detect Lung Cancer Risk in 50,000 Patients Worldwide: Study Shows - Video

AstraZeneca, in partnership with health-tech company Qure.ai, has successfully completed over 5 million artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled chest X-rays (CXRs) across more than 20 countries in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. The initiative, part of the World Economic Forum's EDISON Alliance 1 Billion Lives Challenge, underscores the potential of AI in enhancing early lung cancer detection, particularly in resource-limited healthcare settings.

The screening program uses Qure.ai’s proprietary qXR® AI technology to analyze routine CXRs for signs of lung abnormalities, including nodules that may be indicative of cancer. Initiated in 2020 under AstraZeneca’s A.Catalyst Network, the collaboration aims to support early identification of high-risk individuals and improve access to diagnostic follow-ups like low-dose CT scans. Out of the 5 million scans conducted, nearly 50,000 individuals were identified with lung nodules at high risk for cancer and were referred for further diagnostic testing.

The program has seen successful implementations in countries such as Colombia, El Salvador, and India. AstraZeneca is now working closely with Ministries of Health and policymakers to scale this approach and integrate AI-enabled screening into national lung health strategies. By directing limited resources toward high-risk cases identified through AI, the initiative enhances the efficiency and reach of cancer detection efforts, especially in low- and middle-income countries where access to advanced imaging and specialists is often constrained.

This achievement highlights how AI-driven healthcare solutions can bridge gaps in early detection and improve outcomes for diseases like lung cancer, reinforcing AstraZeneca's global commitment to equitable cancer care and innovative health technology adoption.

"Reaching this milestone underscores our commitment to driving progress towards early detection, the first step on the path to ultimately improved patient outcomes," said Ti Hwei How, Vice President, International Oncology, AstraZeneca. "Our collaboration with Qure.ai has validated the power of AI-enabled chest X-rays as a cost-effective triaging tool for early lung cancer detection. With successful implementation in countries such as Colombia, El Salvador and India, we are setting the stage for scaling this approach. We are actively partnering with Ministries of Health and policymakers to prioritise lung health and lung cancer on national agendas, including through AI-enabled screening programs to make a real difference.” 

Reference: https://www.qure.ai/news_press_coverages/A-new-era-for-lung-cancer-detection-AI-enabled-risk-assessment-reaches-5-million-people-around-the-world