Researchers from the US, UK, and Switzerland have developed a new artificial intelligence test to help doctors identify men with prostate cancer who will benefit most from the drug abiraterone. This drug can cut the risk of death by half in certain patients. The study was announced at the world’s largest cancer conference held in Chicago. The AI tool aims to improve how treatment is targeted and to reduce unnecessary side effects.
Prostate cancer is a serious illness, and abiraterone has already helped many men with advanced cancer live longer. The new AI test analyzes tumor biopsy images and finds patterns that are not visible to the human eye. It uses these patterns to predict which patients will respond best to abiraterone. The test was applied to more than 1,000 men with high-risk, localized prostate cancer.
The AI identified about 25% of men as the best candidates for abiraterone treatment. For these men, the drug reduced the five-year death rate from 17% to 9%. The other 75% of patients showed no significant benefit from abiraterone but responded well to standard hormone therapy and radiotherapy.
While abiraterone can extend life, it also has side effects such as high blood pressure, liver strain, and a slight increase in risks for diabetes and heart attacks. The AI tool helps doctors avoid giving the drug to patients unlikely to benefit, reducing the chance of these side effects.
The study leaders are urging health authorities in England to allow broader use of abiraterone for prostate cancer patients. The drug is priced at about £77 per pack and is already available to some patients in Scotland and Wales. In England, its use is currently limited to men with advanced prostate cancer.
Health organizations have acknowledged the potential of the AI test to improve treatment targeting. An NHS spokesperson said expanding access to abiraterone is a priority and that new evidence will be reviewed to update treatment guidelines.
This AI test could change how prostate cancer is treated by helping doctors give the drug only to patients who will benefit most. This targeted approach may improve survival rates while reducing side effects and unnecessary treatments.