Artificial Intelligence Enhances Early Detection of Breast Tumors in Screening Programs

Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming breast cancer screening by enabling the detection of more tumors at earlier stages. A groundbreaking study led by Radboud University Medical Center, published in The Lancet Digital Health, demonstrates that AI can identify breast tumors more frequently and sooner than traditional double radiologist reviews. This development has significant implications for patient outcomes, as earlier detection often leads to more effective treatment options.

In the Dutch breast cancer screening initiative, researchers analyzed data from over 42,000 mammograms. Typically, two radiologists assess each scan. However, the study incorporated AI developed by ScreenPoint Medical into the review process. The findings revealed that when radiologists worked alongside AI, they identified more tumors than with the standard dual-review approach. AI also detected signs of tumors earlier, often before radiologists recognized them.

Suzanne van Winkel, a Ph.D. candidate involved in the study, explained that AI sometimes flags potential tumors that are initially labeled false positives. Interestingly, many of these tumors are confirmed in subsequent scans, indicating that AI's early signals are often accurate. This earlier detection is crucial because it often involves invasive tumors that require prompt treatment.

The research supports the notion that AI can effectively replace the second radiologist in screening settings, a practice already implemented in Sweden, where AI monitors mammograms and only involves radiologists when the AI's confidence is low. Such integration has been shown to improve tumor detection rates without significantly increasing unnecessary follow-ups.

Despite its promising results, there are logistical hurdles to adopting AI widely in the Netherlands. The current IT infrastructure and organized regional screening programs pose challenges that require funding and system upgrades. Nonetheless, this study highlights AI’s potential to save millions of euros annually and improve early detection rates, ultimately enhancing patient care.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-ai-breast-tumors-earlier-traditional.html