AI Enters Mammography Rooms: Transforming Breast Cancer Early Detection

Artificial intelligence is transforming breast cancer screening, entering mammography rooms to help medical teams detect suspicious lesions in real time. What once seemed like science fiction is now becoming an integral part of medical imaging, raising questions about whether technology can spot what the human eye might miss.

Technological Breakthroughs in Imaging

For years, breast cancer diagnosis relied on traditional imaging combined with the expertise of interpreting physicians. Today, a technological revolution is reshaping the field. AI systems, 3D mammography, and advanced MRI technologies offer doctors powerful new tools to identify suspicious findings, often before anything can be felt manually.

One of the most significant innovations is 3D mammography, known as tomosynthesis. Dr. Arnon Makori, head of imaging at Assuta, explains that unlike traditional 2D mammography, this technology examines breast tissue in layers, reducing overlap obstruction. "This means a better ability to distinguish certain findings, especially in cases where breast density complicates interpretation," he notes.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence

However, Dr. Makori emphasizes that the most exciting shift is happening behind the scenes through the integration of AI. Assuta performs approximately one third of all mammography exams in Israel and is currently rolling out AI systems across all its imaging institutes by the end of the year.

"The systems are designed to assist doctors in analyzing scans and supporting the examination process itself. For example, an AI system can point out an area requiring extra attention already during the mammography, helping the medical team evaluate if a targeted follow-up view or ultrasound is needed," Dr. Makori explains.

He stresses that AI does not replace the physician or diagnose cancer independently. It serves as an auxiliary tool designed to enhance diagnostic capabilities and support professional decision-making, while the ultimate responsibility remains with the medical team.

Expanding Beyond Mammography

Innovation is not limited to mammography alone. Assuta's HaShalom institute is running a pilot program integrating AI into breast ultrasound examinations. Meanwhile, advanced MRI and targeted biopsies guided by ultrasound, mammography, or MRI continue to improve diagnostic precision, with MRI-guided biopsies recently expanded to Haifa and Beersheba.

Despite these advancements, Ministry of Health data shows that in 2022-2023, only 67.5% of women aged 50-74 underwent at least one mammogram over a two-year period. Dr. Makori reminds patients that even the most advanced technology cannot help a woman who fails to get tested.