Five AI tools are to help stretched NHS radiologists spot prostate cancer on MRI scans under watchdog plans

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) rejected two further AI tools, saying more research is needed. The five it backed in draft guidance include DeepHealth Prostate and ProstatID, and are approved for a two-year period during which supporting evidence will be collected. Routine pre-biopsy scans have piled demand on radiology teams already hit by workforce shortages. England recorded more than 58,000 new prostate cancer diagnoses in 2023.

Nice's Dr Anastasia Chalkidou says the software could act as a 'second pair of eyes'.

Professor Peter Johnson says a radiologist will still review every scan.

Nice says the tools could mean fewer unnecessary biopsies and treatments for men.