Researchers from King’s College London (KCL) have developed an Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool named Foresight, which has shown potential in predicting future health conditions of patients by analyzing NHS electronic records. The study, published in The Lancet Digital Health, demonstrates Foresight’s ability to assist clinicians in diagnosis and patient monitoring. Its accuracy was affirmed by clinicians in 93% of cases. Spearheaded by Zeljko Kraljevic at KCL, the tool represents a significant step forward in healthcare technology. Professor Richard Dobson, a senior author of the study, emphasized the importance of using quality data to train AI models. Efforts are underway to refine and enhance Foresight’s capabilities further.

In another advancement in healthcare, a new blood test in England is showing promise for lung cancer patients by enabling personalized treatment plans. The test, capable of detecting genetic variations, facilitates the use of targeted therapies that are less invasive than conventional treatments. Kat Robinson, a beneficiary of the test, received a treatment tailored to her genetic profile, improving her quality of life significantly. This testing initiative, implemented across 80 NHS Trusts, aims to deliver quicker and more effective treatment options for patients by identifying the specific genetic markers of their cancer. Professor Sanjay Popat from the Royal Marsden Hospital lauded the approach for enhancing access to suitable treatments, contributing to better patient outcomes. This approach towards precision medicine reflects the NHS’s commitment to embracing innovative solutions for cancer care.