AI used in breast cancer screening – Australian women are sceptical

A recent study has revealed that Australian women have mixed opinions on the use of AI implemented as part of breast cancer screening.

40% of participants were open to the idea as long as AI improved the accuracy of detection and identification of cancers that radiologists may miss. Despite this, many participants remained apprehensive with 42% strongly opposed to the idea and 18% expressing reservations.

Lead author on the research, Associate Professor Alison Pearce from the University of Sydney concluded that “while women are generally receptive to the benefits of AI in breast cancer screening, they feel strongly that AI should support clinicians, rather than replace them”.

With already low participation rates in national breast screening programs, there is concern that the introduction of AI may disincentivise women to participate or stop altogether.

Image: Image: Shutterstock – Gorodenkoff

Produced By: Maeve Groom

Featured In Story: Associate Professor Alison Pearce – The University of Sydney’s Daffodil Centre

First aired on The Wire, Wednesday 23 April 2025