The NHS is launching a groundbreaking trial to offer same-day prostate cancer diagnosis, using AI to analyse MRI scans in seconds. In the new pathway, men with suspected prostate cancer could receive an all-clear on the same day, or a confirmed diagnosis as early as the next day.
This means fewer weeks of anxious waiting for results as well as giving treatment the best chance of success. As Peter Johnson, NHS national clinical director for cancer, said: “We’re really excited by the potential of artificial intelligence… this could be a game-changer and help save men weeks of worry and uncertainty.”
During the programme, AI will scan MRI images for suspicious lesions, automatically trigger priority review by a radiologist, and refer eligible men for a same-day biopsy. The technology is being trialled across up to 15 hospitals in England, processing around 10,000 scans in regions including Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, the South West and East of England.
We believe this development is very encouraging. We have long advocated that men should have timely access to testing and follow-up, and reducing diagnostic delays is a key part of that mission.
That said, this initiative also highlights the ongoing need for screening and accessible testing pathways. While rapid diagnostic routes are being trialled, many men still face obstacles getting initial tests like the PSA blood test or access to follow-up such as an MRI scan.
For men aged 40+ or at higher risk (family history, Black ethnicity, genetic predisposition) we continue to promote proactive PSA testing through our community events and at-home kits. Early detection means more and better treatment outcomes.
Learn more about PSA testing: https://tgfct.org.uk/Testing-and-Treatments/PSA-Testing
Find an event near you: https://tgfct.org.uk/Events/Our-Events
Clip from This Morning yesterday: