KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry is open to considering using artificial intelligence (AI) to detect diseases, especially cancer, in public hospitals, says Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
In a parliamentary written reply, the Health Minister said such a move will be considered once the AI tools are proven safe, effective and cost-efficient.
“AI technology holds significant potential in enhancing the capabilities of healthcare systems, especially in diagnosing and detecting diseases like cancer at an early stage.
“However, the benefits and potential of this technology must be carefully assessed to ensure that AI is truly impactful and safe to use within the country’s healthcare system,” he said.
Dzulkefly was replying to a question from Wong Chen (PH-Subang) whether the Health Ministry is considering implementing AI in cancer detection in public hospitals.
He added that the ministry’s Malaysian Health Technology Assessment Section (MaHTAS), which is a unit under the Medical Development Division, has conducted several technology assessments involving AI in cancer detection.
“MaHTAS has also conducted evaluations of other AI-related technologies, such as early tuberculosis detection using chest X-rays and portable ultrasound applications integrated with AI,” he said.
So far, the unit is conducting assessments of AI involvement when screening lung cancer, breast cancer and cervical cancer.
Dzulkefly said the assessment of AI for lung cancer screening evaluated the effectiveness of AI in assisting radiologists in detecting lung cancer through chest X-rays.
Currently, he said field-testing and broader implementation for lung cancer detection using AI are underway at the National Cancer Institute and will soon be extended to Cyberjaya Hospital, Kajang Hospital, and Putrajaya Hospital.
“Findings showed that AI algorithms improved sensitivity and reduced false positive rates, particularly among junior radiologists.
“The study also suggested that AI could serve as a ‘second reader’; to enhance the accuracy and timeliness of lung nodule detection,” he added.
For breast cancer screenings or mammograms, Dzulkefly said MaHTAS revealed initial findings highlight AI's potential to support screening, but the available evidence remains limited.
He said the ministry is also exploring the potential of AI technology in the early detection of cervical cancer through medical imaging.
“However, the scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of this technology remains limited. Further studies are needed to establish the role of AI in early cervical cancer screening,” he added.
