Harrogate is first NHS Trust in England to launch new AI technology for breast cancer patients

Harrogate has become the first NHS Trust to introduce new AI technology which will help breast cancer patients get faster diagnosis and treatment.

Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust says the new HER2 tissue scanning system and its advanced AI powered algorithm will be of clinical benefit to patients.

Funded by Harrogate Hospital & Community Charity, which raised more than £40,000 as part of its 30th birthday campaign, the new scanner from Roche will be used by the Histopathology Department at Harrogate District Hospital to help assess breast cancer tissue samples more quickly and efficiently.

Philippa Bleasdale, Harrogate District Hospital’s Histology Section Manager said “It was wonderful to see the scanner and AI software being installed in the department after all the efforts of HHCC and the Histopathology team.

Proud of Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust's new HER2 tissue scanning system - Moses Okogun, Christopher Parry (Roche) Philippa Bleasdale (Histopathology), Rebecca Collings, Gemma Cook (HHCC) and Katy Bruffell (Roche). (Picture contributed)

“This project has been a labour of love and will make a real difference for patients by delivering results more quickly and supporting faster treatment decisions.

“While this technology will initially be used to improve the pathway for breast cancer patients, in the future it is hoped it can be used to assist with the interpretation of other biomarkers for different cancers, such as lung cancer.”

The new scanner captures high–resolution digital images of breast cancer tissue samples and uses an advanced AI powered algorithm to support pathologists in assessing HER2 status, an important factor in identifying if patients are likely to benefit from targeted drug treatment.

The algorithm does this by detecting if the HER2/neu gene, which can be a cause of breast cancer, is present or not in a patient’s sample, helping pathologists review samples more quickly while maintaining expert clinical oversight at every stage.

Receiving test results sooner means patients can begin their treatment plans faster, which improves treatment and outcomes for patients, while reducing anxiety during an already difficult time.

Yvonne Campbell, Head of Charity at HDFT said “We are delighted to be able to support the Histopathology Department with this incredible piece of diagnostic equipment.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support we receive every day from patients, their families and the wider community."