PenRAD Imaging Network adopts AI to enhance early lung cancer detection​

UK – The Peninsula Imaging Network (PenRAD) in the UK has integrated Qure.ai’s artificial intelligence (AI) solution, qCT, into its chest CT scan analysis across four NHS Trusts in Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly.

This deployment marks the UK’s first commercial use of AI for chest CT scans, aiming to assist radiologists in the early detection and monitoring of lung nodules, which can be indicative of lung cancer.

The AI system is currently processing approximately 1,200 chest CT scans weekly across the participating NHS Trusts. ​

The implementation was supported by the UK’s £21 million Artificial Intelligence Diagnostic Fund (AIDF), with PenRAD selecting Qure.ai’s qCT solution in collaboration with Health Innovation Southwest and the Peninsula Cancer Alliance. ​

Dr. Tej Pandher, Consultant Radiologist at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, highlighted the benefits: “Lung nodule AI assistance helps to identify and track suspicious nodules over time.

“The reporting radiologist can then put any such nodules into a clinical context and provide useful information for further follow-up and/or treatment.”

Surabhi Srivastava, UK Business Head at Qure.ai, emphasized the potential impact: “We are delighted to be live with qCT at PenRAD to support the digital transformation of healthcare in the region and extend the potential of AI-powered early lung cancer detection.

“Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, with approximately 75% of patients detected in late-stage disease. Earlier detection can boost survival rates by over 90% if treatment starts at stage 1.”

Qure.ai’s qCT solution is designed to provide clinical decision support in the detection, characterization, quantification, and monitoring of lung nodules.

It can also retrieve patient images from prior examinations to offer comprehensive nodule management and support progression monitoring over time.

This functionality enables clinicians to assess the growth of nodules with standardized data for volumetric assessment and an automatically assigned malignancy risk score of pulmonary nodules using the Brock model and BTS Guidelines.

The integration of AI into PenRAD’s imaging services represents a significant advancement in the early detection and management of lung cancer, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes through timely intervention. ​