An AI-powered multi-cancer early detection (MCED) public welfare program, jointly carried out by the health commission of Lishui in Zhejiang province and Alibaba, is being piloted at the Lishui Central Hospital and the Jingning County People's Hospital.

"One of the main reasons for the high mortality rate of pancreatic cancer is the difficulty in early detection," explained Lu Chenying, director of the radiology department at Lishui Central Hospital. Detection of pancreatic cancer mainly relies on the tumor marker CA19-9, but not every asymptomatic patient undergoes this testing.

With the widespread use of low-dose screenings for lung cancer and pulmonary nodules, chest CT scans have become routine examinations in community and medical examination centers. Alibaba's medical AI serves a new supplementary role in screening for pancreatic tumors.

The program applies a groundbreaking "CT scan plus AI" approach to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of a total of 13 diseases, including pancreatic cancer, osteoporosis, fatty liver, and pulmonary nodules, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of clinical diagnosis.

"AI can serve as an assistant and supplement to doctors, like an extra pair of sharp eyes. This program allows individuals to experience MCED services in routine physical examinations and medical visits at a lower cost," said Lu.