The results of a large survey from a diverse patient population revealed cautious support for AI implementation in screening mammography, according to a study published today in Radiology: Imaging Cancer. Personal medical history and sociodemographic factors influenced respondent’s level of trust in AI. While the diagnostic accuracy of AI systems has drastically improved in recent years, there is still a lack of widespread adoption and acceptance of this technology for a variety of reasons, such as concerns with data privacy, algorithmic bias or even level of knowledge of AI.

One opinion that is frequently overlooked in the conversation surrounding the growth of AI in radiology is that of the patient. Patient perspectives are crucial because successful AI implementation in medical imaging depends on trust and acceptance from those we aim to serve, said study author Basak E. Dogan, MD, clinical professor of radiology and director of breast imaging research at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.

If patients are hesitant or skeptical about AI’s role in their care, this could impact screening adherence and, consequently, overall health care outcomes. To gain a better understanding of patient opinions and concerns regarding the use of AI in screening mammography, Dr. Dogan and colleagues developed a 29-question survey to be offered to all patients who attended their institution for a breast cancer screening mammogram.

The optional survey was available for a period of seven months in 2023.All survey questions were closed-ended and assessed the participants’ knowledge and perceptions of AI. The survey obtained demographic information in addition to clinical information, which uncovered a respondent’s history with breast cancer, such as whether they had any abnormal mammograms in the past or if they or a close family member has ever had breast cancer.

Of the 518 patients who completed the survey, most indicated support for the use of AI alongside a radiologist’s review, with 71% of respondents preferring AI to be used as a second reader. This was despite concerns about loss of personal interaction with the radiologist, data privacy, lack of transparency and bias. Less than 5% were comfortable with AI alone interpreting their screening mammogram.

Source: https://www.rsna.org/news/2025/april/patients-support-ai-backup-in-mammography-screening