The UK government has invested £15.5 million on AI technology that can locate cancer cells two and a half times faster than doctors alone.

The technology, which aims to cut waiting times for cancer treatment, will be rolled out to all NHS radiography departments in England over the next few weeks.

It works by automatically reviewing a CT or MRI scan, helping doctors quickly distinguish between cancerous cells and healthy organs to prevent them from being damaged during radiation treatment.

The government said that trained health workers will review reports before administering any treatment. It estimates the technology will help “tens of thousands” of cancer patients get faster treatment each year.

“The NHS is embracing AI and its benefits for cancer patients and every radiotherapy department will soon be able to offer the latest technology to help diagnose and treat patients more quickly,” said Dr Imogen Locke, national speciality adviser for radiotherapy at NHS England. “We are seeing a record number of referrals for suspected cancer, and game-changing tools like AI will help the NHS continue the significant progress made in tackling the longest waits for patients.”

The government has recently announced several other initiatives which are harnessing the potential of AI. This includes an AI tool which helps work coaches support people returning to work by better focusing on the needs of jobseekers.

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