Microsoft and Bristol Myers Squibb partner to advance AI-enabled lung cancer detection
Bristol Myers Squibb and Microsoft are entering a new partnership aimed at improving the early detection of lung cancer.
The duo announced their collaboration on Jan. 20, citing BMS’ oncology expertise and Microsoft’s widespread network and access to artificial intelligence-enabled imaging tools as the momentum behind the initiative. The organizations plan to target underserved populations and leverage AI-powered workflow management tools to address low adherence to follow-up recommendations for incidental findings.
Together, the pair indicates they intend to further utilize AI to create additional tools that have the potential to create scalable solutions for healthcare organizations, optimized workflows for providers and advanced diagnostic certainty for patients.
“By combining Microsoft’s highly scalable radiology solutions with BMS’ deep expertise in oncology and drug delivery, we’ve envisioned a unique AI-enabled workflow that helps clinicians quickly and accurately identify patients with non-small cell lung cancer and guide them to optimal care pathways and precision therapies,” Alexandra Goncalves, MD, VP and head of digital health at Bristol Myers Squibb, said in an announcement. “An integrated, AI-powered platform that streamlines patient flow can significantly improve operational efficiency and patient outcomes.”
“With Microsoft’s AI-powered radiology technology platform widely deployed within healthcare delivery organizations across the country and operating behind the scenes, clinicians can more easily identify patients who may be showing early signs of cancer—often before they are aware of any symptoms—and help guide them into the appropriate care pathway sooner,” added Peter Durlach, corporate VP and chief strategy officer for Microsoft Health and Life Sciences. “This is a clear win for both patients and providers and aligns with Microsoft’s goals to utilize technology to unlock insights, increase efficiencies, and improve patient care.”
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. It is estimated that the disease claims approximately 125,000 lives in the U.S. every year. However, mortality risk decreases significantly when these cancers are identified earlier via low-dose CT screening exams. Despite this, screening rates have lagged for many years.
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In addition to her background in journalism, Hannah also has patient-facing experience in clinical settings, having spent more than 12 years working as a registered rad tech. She began covering the medical imaging industry for Innovate Healthcare in 2021.