New FDA-approved technology could be a significant win for prostate cancer patients across the US. With this innovation, patients may be able to get the treatment they need much sooner.
Scientists have been making strides in battling the disease in recent years, and this new addition could be the boost we need to get to a final solution. At the very least, it will aid millions nationwide with getting proper treatment.
As you may know, Blacks, particularly men, have a higher incidence and mortality of prostate cancer. Well, it seems the FDA has taken one more step toward making sure we live a longer, much healthier life.
What Did the FDA Approve?
Not too long ago, the FDA approved new software for MRI machines that can potentially detect prostate cancer within patients. A small company developed the technology in Nebraska whose CEO is ecstatic about the latest contribution.
The CEO, Randall Jones, highlighted the plight many men face while fighting prostate cancer and its lack of progress within the past 30 years. However, with his company’s new product, this unfortunate circumstance might disappear over time.
The new software utilizes AI to pinpoint specific prostate cancer markers within MRI scans. The bot will recognize the tumor’s cells and measure the volume to assess how detrimental it could be to the person’s health.
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How This new MRI Software Could Help
This new software will be a massive help for prostate cancer patients because early detection is so important. If the AI can spot cancerous tumors that would be otherwise too small to detect through a regular checkup, there’s a better chance a doctor can catch them.
Furthermore, it will help radiologists assess lesions within the prostate better than before, allowing them to determine cancer potential more accurately. After all, studies have shown that artificial intelligence is much better at screening cancer cells on MRI images than humans.
How Accessible This Technology Will Be
With FDA clearance, the company believes that the pathway toward implementing this technology inside all MRI machines is completely wide open. They can start selling the technology to hospitals everywhere.
The company’s website states they use “affordable technology” to lower the cost of cancer screenings. According to them, this reduces the liability insurance premium for physicians and care providers.
Lower insurance premiums mean less money is required to get a screening, making it more affordable for those who come from low-income backgrounds.
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What Does This Mean For Prostate Cancer Patients?
Prostate cancer treatment’s future is bright as this new AI receives FDA approval. Now the small Nebraskan company can spread its technology to each corner of the US and slowly phase out painful biopsies and invasive prostate tests.
That is a relief because biopsies are not only painful but also very costly. Some of the more expensive ones can get upwards of $1,000. Most people who don’t have the best insurance may have to pay that out of pocket.
However, there are still drawbacks to MRI screenings that this new technology may have addressed. In recent years, a patient could see a bill for $500 if they need an MRI for prostate cancer.
Additionally, several community hospitals do not even offer MRI screenings, and if they do, the accuracy is highly questionable. That means you may not be able to get an MRI unless you live in a big city with a major health center.
Undoubtedly, this new FDA approval has quickened the pace of the steady progress towards better health for prostate cancer patients. If everything goes well, MRIs could become a cheaper, more efficient way to fight against the disease.