SATA CommHealth, an established charitable medical healthcare provider in Singapore, is pleased to announce the successful implementation of the advanced artificial intelligence (AI) programme, Lunit, for mammogram screening reports. After a successful pilot test, SATA CommHealth’s diagnostic imaging team has used this cutting-edge technology for several months. This AI programme was adopted to enhance the sensitivity and accuracy of mammography reporting, significantly reducing waiting times and alleviating patient anxiety and stress.
Enhancing detection and productivity with Artificial Intelligence
SATA CommHealth has integrated the Lunit INSIGHT MMG programme into its regular mammogram screening process, leveraging AI to assist in analysing and interpreting mammogram images with an impressive 96% accuracy in detecting breast cancer. Despite the potential of this technological advancement, the uptake rate for breast cancer screening in Singapore remains low, partly due to fear of detection and concerns about survival outcomes, according to The Straits Times.
This technology aims to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of breast cancer detection by providing radiologists with automated tools to identify potential abnormalities. The primary objective is to improve early detection, which is crucial for better patient outcomes in managing breast cancer and benign conditions. By integrating Lunit AI, SATA CommHealth also aims to enhance radiologists’ productivity as compared to relying on traditional methods of mammogram interpretation, which can sometimes lead to oversight or misinterpretation of early signs of cancer.
In contrast, Lunit’s AI solution is a sophisticated assistant capable of swiftly and accurately analysing vast amounts of imaging data. In addition to the radiologist’s comprehensive analysis, AI technology enhances diagnostic precision and enables early detection of breast cancer, a crucial factor in achieving successful treatment outcomes.
By integrating Lunit INSIGHT MMG into our mammogram screening process, we have set a new standard for breast cancer detection. This advanced AI technology not only enhances the accuracy of our diagnoses but significantly streamlines our efficiency and saves us considerable time. The analysis results are intuitive and easy to understand, significantly speeding up the reading process for each mammogram.”
– Dr Cheryl, SATA CommHealth Medical Director
Benefits of using Lunit INSIGHT MMG
The AI technology within the Lunit INSIGHT MMG assists radiologists in interpreting breast images, such as mammograms, increasing diagnostic accuracy and benefiting patients. Early detection, facilitated by AI, can lead to complete cures in many cases of breast cancer. The AI’s enhanced sensitivity in identifying early signs, such as pleomorphic microcalcifications, is a significant advantage over traditional methods, allowing for timely intervention and potentially life-saving treatments.
- Enhanced detection: Enhanced detection capabilities lead to better outcomes for patients.
- Seamless triage of regular cases: Streamlining the screening process by quickly identifying non-concerning cases.
- Improved reading performance of general radiologists: Augmenting radiologists’ capabilities to ensure higher diagnostic accuracy.
- Early diagnosis: Facilitating timely intervention is critical for successful treatment.
- Support for decision-making on BI-RADS 3 and 4 cases: Providing additional data to assist in complex case assessments.
- Improved diagnostic accuracy for dense breasts: Overcoming challenges posed by dense breast tissue to ensure accurate diagnoses.
Future plans and developments
Additionally, SATA CommHealth plans to invest in ongoing training and development for its diagnostic imaging team to maximise the benefits of AI technology. They are also exploring partnerships with other healthcare institutions to advance the capabilities and applications of AI in healthcare collaboratively.
This service is available at SATA CommHealth’s main diagnostic imaging centres and selected SATA CommHealth clinics across Singapore, ensuring broader access to advanced screening capabilities to improve patient outcomes.
For more information, visit www.sata.com.sg.
Images: SATA CommHealth