Samantha Harrison from Cancer Research UK noted that while innovations like the AI trial could alleviate pressures on NHS staff and waiting lists, individuals should still consult their doctors for any unusual changes.

The government's commitment to integrating AI in public services is part of a broader strategy, with over £14 billion already invested through the AI Opportunities Action Plan.

Breast Cancer Now's chief executive welcomed the government's research announcement but emphasized the need to address existing workforce capacity and training issues within the breast screening program.

On World Cancer Day, the UK government announced a significant trial aimed at testing AI in breast cancer screening, with the goal of improving diagnosis speed and alleviating pressure on radiologists.

Professor Peter Johnson, the NHS's national clinical director for cancer, emphasized the importance of a National Cancer Plan to expedite early diagnosis and enhance treatment effectiveness.

Experts stress that any new technology, including AI, must be clinically validated to ensure safety and effectiveness before being integrated into the breast screening program.

AI-assisted screenings have the potential to detect up to 20% more cancers compared to traditional radiologist-only screenings, while also reducing false positives.

Despite the promise of AI in medical diagnostics, experts caution that its development is still in early stages and requires careful oversight to ensure accuracy.

As part of the trial, women aged 50 to 53 who are scheduled for routine NHS screenings will be invited to participate in the £11 million Early Detection using Information Technology in Health (Edith) trial.

The Royal College of Radiologists has pointed out that the NHS currently faces a 30% shortage of radiologists, highlighting the urgent need to expand capacity in imaging services.

Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle highlighted the potential life-saving benefits of early cancer detection and its role in easing pressures on the NHS.

Experts have warned that the new cancer plan must be ambitious to prevent unnecessary patient deaths and improve the UK's cancer survival rates, which currently lag behind other high-income countries.