AI’s Transformative Potential in Cancer Care Highlighted by Ruth Porat at ASCO Annual Meeting
At the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s Annual Meeting in Chicago, Ruth Porat, Chief Financial Officer of Google, emphasized the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, particularly in oncology. Porat believes we are witnessing a technological revolution akin to major historical innovations, including the steam engine and electricity, which economists categorize as “general purpose technologies.” Such advancements have the ability to significantly impact economies and societies by diffusing through various sectors.
Porat pointed out that AI holds immense potential to boost global GDP by approximately $20 trillion by 2030 if integrated across industries. However, she focused on its applicability in healthcare, especially in enhancing cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient outcomes. She shared her personal journey with cancer, having faced the disease twice, and the fear it instilled in her, particularly regarding her children’s future. Despite the daunting experiences, she emphasized that modern treatments made her diagnosis "manageable," a crucial step that offers hope in oncology.
She expressed gratitude for the extraordinary care she received, showcasing the importance of collaboration between technology and healthcare professionals. Porat cited insights from Vint Cerf, co-father of the internet, who believes AI has even greater potential than the internet itself in augmenting human capabilities.
As Porat concluded her remarks, she acknowledged the ongoing challenges in making cancer manageable for all patients. She urged the scientific community to leverage AI for breakthroughs that could potentially transform cancer care from manageable to preventable and curable, resonating with ASCO’s mission to conquer cancer through research and high-quality patient care. Porat’s vision serves as a rallying call for continued innovation and dedication in the fight against cancer.
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