08 Jan Using AI in cancer treatment
This article covers ‘Daily Current Affairs’ and the topic details of ‘Use of AI in cancer treatment’ This topic is relevant in the “Science & Technology” section of the UPSC CSE exam.
UPSC Mains GS-3 SYLLABUS : Science and technology-developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.
Why in the News?
Given an increasing number of cancer cases, the scarcity of professionals poses a major challenge in reducing mortality rates. To fill this gap, Mumbai’s Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH), India’s largest cancer hospital, is resorting to artificial intelligence (AI).The hospital is using deep learning to create a cancer-specific customised algorithm which helps in early-stage cancer identification by establishing a ‘Bio-Imaging Bank’ for cancer.
About Bio-imaging Banks :
- The Bio-Imaging Bank is a collection of radiology and pathology pictures that are linked to clinical data, outcome statistics, therapy specifics, and other metadata.
- It is a type of biosensing that uses light to create non-invasive visual illustrations of biological processes in cells, tissues, and anatomy for more precise diagnosis and treatment. Bioimaging attempts to interfere with biological processes with as little disruption as possible.
- It is also used to obtain information on the 3-D structure of an observed specimen from the outside, i.e. without physical disturbance.
- Methods for visualising biological material that has been fixed for observation are also included in bioimaging.
- Deep learning is being used by the hospital to create a cancer-specific customised algorithm that will aid in the initial stages of cancer identification.
How AI will help in detection of Cancer :
- Data Learning: AI analyses huge databases of radiological and pathological pictures to identify features linked with specific malignancies.
- Early detection: Early detection is achieved by detecting tissue alterations and probable cancers.
- Chronic patient data generated by thorough imaging aids in understanding the behaviour, treatment response, illness recurrence, and life expectancy.This data is used by AI and machine learning procedures to construct forecasts for cancer survival and to influence treatment aggressiveness.
- The compilation of a cancer image bank enables the development of algorithms for various tumours, the assessment of treatment reactions using only images, and the avoidance of wasteful chemotherapy for anticipated non-responders.
- This means that children will be exposed to far less radiation while keeping diagnostic quality with no degradation.
Use of AI in future in treating cancers and tumours :
- Personalised treatment : AI is projected to personalise treatment techniques based on patient profiles, optimise therapeutic outcomes.
- Facilitating Diagnosis: AI could allow physicians to diagnose complex cancers with a single click, increasing the accuracy of cancer treatments.
- Continuous Learning: As AI learns and develops, it offers more accurate cancer diagnosis, improved patient outcomes, and assistance to healthcare workers.
National Cancer Grid :
In India, the National Cancer Grid (NCG) is a network of major cancer centres, academic institutions, and regional cancer centres that work in tandem to standardise cancer care and facilitate oncology research. The National Cancer Grid’s major objective is to improve cancer care quality, support research, and ensure that the most recent advances in cancer treatment reach patients across the country.
Conclusion :
While AI has enormous potential, it is critical to combine technical breakthroughs with human skill, as well as address ethical and legal issues, in order to provide the best possible care for patients.
Prelims practice question :
Q1) What is the function of chemotherapy in the treatment of cancer?
a) Tumour’s removal by surgery
b) Immune system boosting
c) Drug-assisted targeted killing of cancer cells
d) Interfering with hormone production
Answer: c)
Mains practice question :
Q1) Examine the impact of AI on personalised medicine. What aspects should be examined for the successful deployment of AI algorithms in customised treatment programmes based on specific patient characteristics?
I am a content developer and have done my Post Graduation in Political Science. I have given 2 UPSC mains, 1 IB ACIO interview and have cleared UGC NET JRF too.
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