Microsoft and Bristol-Myers Scibib team up to deploy AI for early lung cancer diagnosis

Microsoft has partnered with Bristol-Myers Squibb to use AI-powered radiology tools to accelerate early detection of lung cancer, according to an announcement Tuesday.

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in men and women, and the leading cause of cancer death in the US, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS).

The ACS estimates that by 2026, there will be more than 229,000 new lung cancer diagnoses and nearly 125,000 deaths.

As part of the collaboration, hospitals using the Microsoft Precision Imaging Network will be able to use FDA-cleared AI tools to automatically analyze medical images, detect lung disease, and spot hard-to-see nodules.

This supports radiologists in their work and can identify patients with lung cancer at earlier stages to get timely care.

“By combining Microsoft's highly scalable radiology solutions with BMS' deep expertise in oncology and drug delivery, we envision a unique AI-enabled workflow that will help clinicians quickly and accurately diagnose patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and guide them to the best care pathways and the right treatments,” said Dr.

The partnership will focus on improving early detection in underserved areas, reaching rural hospitals and community clinics.

“This new Microsoft partnership reflects our commitment to breaking down barriers and solving health care problems,” said Andrew Whitehead, head of public health at Myers Squibb in Bristol. “By deploying this solution and bringing advanced AI tools to the front line, together we will help address the health disparity in lung cancer.”