Researchers at Case Western Reserve University and the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center have secured a four-year, $1.14 million grant from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Their goal with this grant is to revolutionise the treatment of rectal cancer among Veterans using artificial intelligence (AI).
Rectal cancer is a notable health concern among military personnel, affecting up to 8% of Veterans and 5% of active-duty service members.
Treating rectal cancer
Current treatment protocols often follow a standard approach, primarily surgical, which can pose risks and impact patients’ quality of life.
“We urgently need better markers to assess the risk of metastasis and invasion so patients can be recommended additional therapy to maximise their chance of survival.” explains Eric Marderstein, co-investigator and section chief of general and colorectal surgery at the Cleveland VA Medical Center.
The role of AI
Part of this approach includes an AI tool called the computational image Rectal Response Classifier (ciRRC). This tool analyses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans with a level of detail beyond human capability. By scrutinising MRI data, ciRRC aims to provide insights into how rectal tumors respond to various treatments.
Once fully developed and validated, ciRRC could potentially transform clinical practice. It would enable doctors to tailor treatments more precisely to individual patients, identifying those who might benefit from specific therapies while avoiding unnecessary risks and complications.
“Time is of the essence, especially for Veterans who tend to be older than other rectal cancer patients,” Viswanath said. “Our project addresses this critical need to improve outcomes and quality of life for Veterans.”
Multi-institutional collaboration
The study also includes a collaborative effort across multiple VA Medical Centers in the Midwest to validate and expand the application of ciRRC. This approach ensures that the benefits of AI-driven personalised medicine can reach a broader population of Veterans.
With advancements in chemotherapy and radiation therapy combinations, ciRRC could potentially predict treatment resistance, guiding clinicians towards alternative therapies that could enhance survival rates and quality of life for Veterans battling rectal cancer.
This initiative represents a new effort to harness AI’s power for personalised healthcare solutions tailored specifically to the needs of Veterans facing rectal cancer.
