At the IASLC 2024 World Conference on Lung Cancer in San Diego, a new study has demonstrated that AI-powered chest X-ray interpretation can identify lung nodules that may develop into early-stage lung cancers nearly three years before symptoms appear.

The study, conducted at Phrapokklao Hospital’s Cancer Centre of Excellence in Bangkok, Thailand, showed an average diagnostic delay of nearly three years from the first abnormal chest X-ray.

Led by Dr Passakorn Wanchaijiraboon, Medical Oncologist and Deputy Director, the research utilised the Qure.ai chest X-ray AI solution, qXR.

Dr Passakorn Wanchaijiraboon explained: “This abstract study, presented at the World Conference on Lung Cancer, provides a snapshot of the significant potential that AI-assisted chest X-ray analysis holds for transforming early cancer detection and reducing the rate of missed lung cancer diagnoses.

“In most Thai government hospitals, chest X-rays are interpreted by non-radiologists. However, in community hospitals, there are often no radiologists available to read chest X-rays at all. By overlaying specialist AI to read all cases, we can support clinicians in detecting incidental high-risk nodules that may lead to lung cancer.”

The study reviewed chest X-ray images of newly diagnosed lung cancer patients over a year, finding that 18% of cases had a missed lung cancer diagnosis over an average period of nearly three years. Half of these cases were incidentally detected during health check-ups for non-respiratory symptoms.

APL, one of Sweden’s largest manufacturers of extemporaneous medicines and a leading contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO), has announced a partnership with CurifyLabs, a Finnish health tech company specialising in personalised medicine manufacturing solutions.

This collaboration aims to enhance the administration of medicines to children and critically ill patients using innovative 3D printing technology.

3D printing offers significant advantages over traditional pharmaceutical processes by enabling the production of more personalised dosages and dosage forms with flexible shapes and structures. This technology allows for precise dosing, which can help reduce side effects.

Currently, APL’s manufacturing method produces at least 100 capsules per batch.  However, with 3D printing technology, precise doses can be created, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.

This automated approach also improves the working environment for staff by lowering the risk of repetitive strain injuries and limiting exposure to toxic substances.

Erik Haeffler, Chief Executive Officer at APL, stated, “We are very impressed with CurifyLabs’ commitment to supporting us on our journey to address the urgent unmet needs of critically ill patients. 3D printing is an exciting technology that is well-suited to extemporaneous manufacturing. It will give us additional opportunities to fulfil our public policy assignment.”