Punjab moves to introduce AI scanner for early cancer detection

LAHORE: Punjab is preparing to introduce an artificial intelligence-powered medical screening system aimed at detecting cancer and other serious diseases at an early stage.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has given in-principle approval for the introduction of the AI-powered multi-disease scanner in the province.

The technology was presented to the chief minister during a meeting with senior representatives of Chinese technology company Alibaba.

Officials briefed Maryam Nawaz about the capabilities of the proposed system and its potential use in Punjab’s healthcare sector.

According to the briefing, the AI-based system uses non-contrast CT scans to screen patients for multiple diseases. It can potentially identify signs of up to 10 diseases within about two minutes.

The system is designed to assist doctors at different stages of healthcare. These include disease screening, diagnosis, treatment planning and patient management.

A major focus of the technology is the early identification of several types of cancer.

The system can assist in detecting pancreatic and liver cancers. It can also screen for gastric, pancreatic, esophageal, colorectal and liver cancers.

Early detection can be particularly important in cancer cases because patients may have better treatment options when a disease is identified before it reaches an advanced stage.

The proposed technology is not limited to cancer screening.

Officials said the AI system can also help identify Acute Aortic Syndrome, a serious condition involving the major artery of the body. It can further assess certain risks linked to cardiovascular diseases.

The technology can also analyse indicators related to body fat and muscle health.

It may assist healthcare professionals in assessing osteoporosis and bone weakness. It can also help identify signs associated with fatty liver disease.

The AI system is intended to support doctors rather than replace conventional medical diagnosis.

Doctors would continue to interpret medical findings and make clinical decisions. The technology would instead provide an additional screening and assessment tool.

Maryam Nawaz expressed interest in using advanced technology to improve healthcare services in Punjab.

Following the briefing, she directed the provincial health authorities to prepare a pilot project for the proposed system.

The pilot project is expected to help authorities assess the technology before considering wider implementation across the province.

No final details have yet been announced about the location or date of the first deployment.

Authorities are expected to determine the pilot sites and implementation framework as work on the project progresses.

The proposed initiative reflects Punjab’s growing focus on the use of artificial intelligence and advanced digital technologies in healthcare.

If successfully implemented, the system could help speed up screening and provide doctors with additional information when assessing patients with suspected serious diseases.