WINTER PARK, Fla. – AdventHealth has introduced an innovative approach to breast cancer risk assessment by harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and genetic data to provide early detection strategies. Since August 1, two AdventHealth locations, namely Waterford Lakes and Winter Park, have been implementing the "GRACE" program, which stands for Genomics Risk Assessment for Cancer & Early Detection.
The GRACE program integrates a patient’s family and medical history with AI technology that analyses extensive datasets of similar anonymous patients. This innovative method aims to deliver precise and personalised risk assessments for breast cancer, enhancing the traditional techniques that primarily relied on age and a few other basic health variables.
Dr. Wes Walker, the Director of Genomics and Personal Health at AdventHealth, stated, "This means that we’re going to obtain the most precise and individualized results and a risk assessment for them using the latest technology." The program employs AI in two significant ways: assessing image density from mammograms and incorporating this information into an algorithm that calculates risk, utilising a comprehensive set of factors including genetic tests and breast density.
Once assessed, patients identified as high-risk are advised to undergo additional diagnostic procedures potentially involving more detailed imaging techniques such as MRI and further genetic testing. As Dr. Walker elaborates, "If they decide to go forward with that, that information from those tests will feed back into the risk analysis, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of their current risk and future care strategies."
Notably, about 20% of the patients who have participated in the program since its inception in August have been classified as high-risk, hence referred for further evaluation. The program distinguishes itself by providing a Nurse Navigator, a professional who assists patients in understanding their test results and empowers them to be proactive in their healthcare decisions. Ana Armstrong, the Nurse Navigator for the GRACE program, highlighted that this human touch enhances the technological process, allowing patients to feel more involved in their healthcare journey.
Looking ahead, Dr. Walker anticipates the program will expand across all 16 centres in AdventHealth’s Central Florida Division by 2025, with an aim to screen up to 100,000 women annually. This expansion reflects AdventHealth's commitment to utilising cutting-edge technology in delivering improved healthcare outcomes and providing comprehensive care tailored to individual patient needs.
Source: Noah Wire Services