NHS to trial AI tools that assist radiologists in detecting prostate cancer on MRIs

Nice’s draft guidance proposes a two-year NHS trial of five artificial-intelligence applications designed to flag suspicious regions on prostate MRI scans, effectively providing radiologists with a supplemental review layer. The move follows a surge in prostate MRI referrals, straining already stretched imaging teams. Officials highlighted that the AI could boost reporting accuracy, prioritize urgent cases, and alleviate waiting times for the roughly 68,000 men diagnosed annually in the UK.

Leaders from Nice, the NHS cancer directorate, and Prostate Cancer UK all emphasized that the tools will support, not replace, clinicians. The trial aims to gather evidence on real-world performance before wider adoption. If successful, the technology could streamline cancer pathways and lessen patient stress.