AI and breast screening: Helpful tool or too much technology?

CHE RESEARCH BITES

By  Maame Esi Woode, Udeni De Silva Perera, Chris Degeling, Yves Saint James Aquino, Nehmat Houssami, Stacy M. Carter & Gang Chen

13 May, 2026

This study explored how women in Australia feel about using artificial intelligence (AI) in breast cancer screening, particularly for reading mammogram images. Over 2,000 women aged 40 to 74 took part in an online survey where they were asked to choose between different screening options with varying features, such as who reads the scan (two radiologists, AI plus a radiologist, or AI only), how accurate the test is, how long results take, and who is responsible if mistakes occur. Some women were also given extra information explaining how AI might benefit screening.

The study found that most women are open to AI being used in breast screening, but prefer it to assist radiologists rather than replace them. The most strongly preferred option was a combined approach, where an AI system and a radiologist read the mammogram. Women cared most about accuracy, especially reducing missed cancers and false alarms. Receiving results more quickly was also important.

Women who were given more information about the benefits of AI were more supportive of its use and less likely to avoid screening. However, participants wanted clear accountability if errors occur and did not want AI developers alone to be responsible.

Overall, the study shows that AI can be acceptable in breast cancer screening if it is accurate, transparent, and used alongside human experts.

Woode ME, De Silva Perera U, Degeling C, Aquino YS, Houssami N, Carter SM, Chen G. Preferences for the Use of Artificial Intelligence for Breast Cancer Screening in Australia: A Discrete Choice Experiment: ME Woode et al. The Patient-Patient-Centered Outcomes Research. 2025 Sep;18(5):495-510.

Find out more about the Economic Behaviour, Incentives and Preferences in Health theme.

CHE Research Bites are short, easy-to-understand summaries of our recent academic papers highlighting new evidence and insights on topical issues in the health and healthcare sectors.

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