Tshepang Mahlangu
Artificial Intelligence (AI) which on a basic level means ‘intelligence demonstrated by machines’ has become a popular and rapidly growing form
of technology. AI in breast cancer screening is a tool that has been considered with the current screening modalities that have the potential of
addressing some cancer screening challenges and thus strengthening healthcare systems more in particular Oncology and cancer centers in both
developed and developing countries. Detecting breast cancer in its early stages has seen some limitations due to late detection, false-positive or
false-negative, reporting delay, lack of resources, and screening facilities. AI has demonstrated the ability to learn and interpret data with high
accuracy; thus, its applications in breast and chest imaging radiological modalities have shown that it can be beneficial for – early detection of
cancer, reduce average reporting time, triage x-rays, reduce false-positive and more research is being added. Some more innovative applications
of AI in breast cancer screening; thermal source instead of radiation source modalities, free open source AI software that interprets radiographs,
and more. All the above-mentioned benefits can address cancer challenges yet ethical considerations of AI applications into account. According
to (Benjamin O. Anderson MD, 2003) ‘Early detection of breast cancer reduces the stage at diagnosis, potentially improving the odds of survival
and cure, and enabling simpler and more cost-effective treatment and ‘When resources become available for screening, they should be invested
in screening mammography, as it is the only modality that has thus far been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality.