The Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) has launched an artificial intelligence (AI)-based X-ray screening initiative to identify lung diseases more accurately. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said that the technology combines AI-powered X-rays to perform data analysis to improve accuracy in making diagnoses.
The screening is targeted at high-risk groups such as active smokers, individuals exposed to second-hand cigarette smoke, chemical industry workers, and those exposed to toxic substances. The pilot project will be carried out at seven government health clinics nationwide. Participants who show early signs will undergo a low-dose CT (LDCT) scan to confirm the results.
The cost of installing the AI software at each clinic is around RM10,000 with connected clinics not having to install the software individually. This is among the Malaysia Lung Health Initiative 2025-2030 which aims to increase awareness and access to faster and more effective treatment. This is in line with the government's decision to promote the use of AI among civil servants through AI At Work 2.0, which was launched last February.
In a study conducted by the Ministry of Health in 2022, radiologists had better diagnostic performance interpretations with AI algorithms than without them for lung cancer detection on chest radiographs. For example, the average sensitivity improved from 66.4% to 74.7% and the number of false positive findings per radiograph decreased from 0.25 to 0.18 when radiologists reviewed radiographs with the AI algorithm.