Thomas Burden
Healthcare Market Analyst, Life Sciences Hub Wales
As cancer rates rise and resources are stretched, Wales pioneers artificial intelligence (AI) and big data use to support earlier detection and diagnosis of cancer.
Investment in essential digital infrastructure is underway, including digital pathology, where traditional practices are being transformed through digital imaging and data analysis.
AI enhances pathology efficiency
By converting pathology images into digital formats, faster case referrals between organisations are now possible, with AI enhancing the analysis of complex data with greater speed and accuracy.
A prime example is Ibex Medical Analytics’ Ibex Prostate platform, currently being tested across six NHS Wales Health Boards.
A previous trial at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board showed promising results, with the system allowing urgent cases to be prioritised for clinician review, improving patient outcomes through faster diagnosis and potentially reducing the need for additional biopsies. Overall, Ibex Prostate led to a 13% increase in cancer detection.1
Wales is setting a new standard for
a more efficient, sustainable and
patient-centred healthcare system.
Big data advances cancer prevention
Meanwhile, big data is proving invaluable for population health. Platforms that gather and process vast datasets help identify health trends, support research and train AI models for future medical applications. The need for and benefits of developing a multi-omic platform that integrates clinical, genomic and imaging data are well recognised, building on existing Welsh assets and expertise.
For example, Swansea University’s SAIL Databank holds some of the richest population-scale data in the world, enabling researchers to comprehensively address critical health questions. This extensive resource enables the study of disease trends and risk factors. It equips public health teams with the data necessary to develop targeted cancer prevention strategies and clinical teams with tools to improve patient outcomes by detecting cancers earlier.
Wales pioneers digital healthcare
As Wales continues its digital transformation, strong evidence is emerging of how innovative technology can alleviate healthcare system pressures, reduce costs and, crucially, improve patient care and outcomes.
Through these approaches, Wales is setting a new standard for a more efficient, sustainable and patient-centred healthcare system. For innovators, Wales offers a unique collaborative environment. Join Life Sciences Hub Wales to access opportunities and partnerships that drive impact in cancer care and population health.
Connect with us via lshubwales.com/innovation-enquiry-form
[1] Welsh Government, 2023. A helping to diagnose cancer in Wales.
