Queen’s research transforms prostate cancer care with AI

AI is driving groundbreaking advancements in prostate cancer care, thanks to multidisciplinary efforts at Queen’s University Belfast. Researchers are harnessing data science and collaborating across clinical, biological, and technological fields to improve diagnosis, treatment, and patient outcomes. A key focus is personalised medicine, tailoring therapies to an individual’s genetic profile or tumour characteristics.

The university leads a cross-border initiative linking clinical, genomic, and socioeconomic data across Ireland to enable comprehensive cancer care. Scientists are using AI to analyse biomarkers, which can predict disease progression and treatment effectiveness. However, this approach minimises harmful side effects from ineffective therapies and ensures patients receive the most appropriate care.

AI is also being applied to digital pathology and radiomics to refine cancer diagnostics. Patterns in biopsy images and scans offer valuable insights into tumour behaviour, helping clinicians identify aggressive cancers or optimise radiotherapy. Research into stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy (SABR) and new radiotherapy combinations is also improving survival rates and reducing treatment burdens.

The research has profound implications for prostate cancer, the most common cancer in men in the UK. Patient involvement in clinical trials not only accelerates innovation but also brings hope to those facing a diagnosis. With advancements spearheaded by Queen’s University, the outlook for patients and their families continues to improve.