PANDA: AI Innovation For Cancer Detection From Alibaba Gets International Recognition

The appearance of PANDA technology from Alibaba Group (photo: Alibaba)

JAKARTA - Alibaba Group managed to occupy 8th place out of 250 nominations for the company that is included in the Fortune version of the 10th annual Change the World list thanks to AI equipment innovation for cancer detection.

The tool, named PANDA, was developed by DAMO Academy, Alibaba's research institute, which functions to help medical workers quickly and accurately detect pancreatic cancer lesions.

This tool utilizes deep learning-based technology to detect cancer lesions and pre-cancers through non-contrast CT scan checks, which are more efficient and use lower radiation doses.

"Our main goal is to use AI in every cancer treatment process, from early detection to diagnosis with high accuracy and accessibility," said Le Lu, DAMO's head of medical AI team.

With this cloud-based solution, Alibaba will empower patients who may not have access to cancer screening due to scarcity or high specific medical treatment costs.

Alibaba claims that PANDA shows a sensitivity of 341 percent higher than radiologs in detecting abnormalities during screening. This tool has been used to detect seven types of general cancer through a single CT scan.

This innovation has been implemented in two hospitals in China and received international recognition. Alibaba is also working with WHO to advance digital health technology in developing countries.

This PANDA innovation reinforces the company's commitment to utilizing technology to solve social issues while still achieving profitability.