Key Takeaways
- Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used in various industries, including healthcare, to improve patient outcomes and quality of care
- AI-assisted technology is being used during colonoscopies to increase the adenoma detection rate and reduce the risk of colon cancer
- The national standard for adenoma detection is around 25%, and AI can increase this rate by identifying subtle changes in the colon that can be difficult for the human eye to catch
- Adults ages 45 to 49 are recommended to begin routine colonoscopy screenings, especially if they have a family history of colon cancer
- Early detection and coordinated care are crucial in treating colon cancer, and VA offers advanced exam tools and a fully coordinated team to support treatment and recovery
Introduction to AI in Healthcare
A decade ago, Artificial Intelligence (AI) was a topic of discussion among only a small number of specialists, and it was often surrounded by uncertainty. However, today, AI is an integral part of various industries, including healthcare. As Dr. Douglas Boyce, a gastroenterologist at the Asheville VA, notes, "I think the push was to see if it had an impact on the quality of procedures and the quality of outcomes for patients." AI has become a crucial tool in improving patient outcomes and quality of care, and its use is becoming increasingly prevalent in medical procedures such as colonoscopies.
The Role of AI in Colonoscopies
AI-assisted technology is being used during colonoscopies to increase the adenoma detection rate, which is a critical quality measure in colonoscopy. Adenomas are benign polyps that can eventually turn cancerous, and the national standard for detection is around 25%. According to Dr. Douglas Huntley, Deputy Chief of Staff, "AI can detect these very small changes in the mucosa that you may not recognize as a provider." AI can increase the adenoma detection rate by identifying subtle changes in the colon that can be difficult for the human eye to catch, and even a 1% increase in adenoma detection can lower a patient’s risk of developing colon cancer by 3%. As Dr. Huntley notes, "AI is very precise, it learns, and in learning, it levels the playing field for all of us."
The Importance of Early Detection
Age remains the leading risk factor for colon cancer, which is the third most common cancer in the United States. Even individuals who feel healthy should follow screening guidelines, and adults ages 45 to 49 are recommended to begin routine colonoscopy screenings, especially if they have a family history of the disease. Air Force Veteran Dawn Yllescas knows the importance of early detection, having been diagnosed with colon cancer after a routine colonoscopy. As she notes, "I had no symptoms—none… I came in for a routine colonoscopy because I was the right age to get checked. I woke up from the procedure and learned that I had colon cancer." Yllescas credits early detection and coordinated VA care for saving her life, and encourages others to get screened, saying "It might feel uncomfortable or embarrassing, but it is extremely important. You have to take care of yourself."
VA’s Advanced Exam Tools and Coordinated Care
The VA offers some of the most advanced exam tools available, and if anything is found, a fully coordinated team—gastroenterology, oncology, primary care, Whole Health, and more—is prepared to support every step of treatment and recovery. Dr. Boyce encourages patients to ask their providers whether AI is used during colonoscopies, saying "It may sound technical, but it is an important question. It can make for a more efficient, more thorough exam." The VA’s use of AI-assisted technology and coordinated care has been instrumental in improving patient outcomes, and it is never too late to apply for VA health care benefits. As the article notes, "If you are a Veteran or know a Veteran who has not yet applied for their VA health care benefits, learn how to get started."
Conclusion
In conclusion, AI is playing an increasingly important role in healthcare, particularly in procedures such as colonoscopies. The use of AI-assisted technology has been shown to improve patient outcomes and quality of care, and it is crucial that patients take advantage of these advances. As Dr. Huntley notes, "It is vital that we use any safe and effective technology that reduces morbidity and mortality for our Veterans." By following screening guidelines and taking advantage of the VA’s advanced exam tools and coordinated care, patients can reduce their risk of developing colon cancer and improve their overall health outcomes.