A recent study published in Radiology: Imaging Cancer indicates that patients are cautiously optimistic about the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in mammography screening. The survey, encompassing a diverse patient demographic, suggests a general willingness to accept AI's role in enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of breast cancer detection. However, the support is qualified, reflecting concerns about the technology's reliability and the importance of maintaining human oversight.
The study highlights the necessity for transparency and patient education as key factors in fostering greater acceptance. Participants expressed a desire for clear communication regarding how AI is used in their screening process and its potential benefits and limitations. This suggests that healthcare providers need to proactively address patient apprehensions to ensure the successful adoption of AI in mammography.
Ultimately, the survey underscores the potential for AI to improve breast cancer screening while also pointing to the critical need for patient-centred implementation strategies. These strategies should prioritise informed consent, clear communication, and the continued involvement of radiologists to ensure that AI serves as a valuable tool in the fight against breast cancer.