Malaysia launches AI-powered X-ray to detect lung diseases

New Straits Times

04-05-2025

PUTRAJAYA: The Health Ministry has launched a new AI-driven X-ray screening initiative targeting high-risk groups, with seven government health clinics identified for the pilot phase starting this year.
Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the effort involves the use of advanced technology — X-rays supported by artificial intelligence and analysed through data analytics to provide higher accuracy.
"Screening is conducted on high-risk groups such as active smokers, those who inhale second-hand smoke, chemical industry workers, or those exposed to toxic substances," he added in a press conference on the Lung Health Initiative Malaysia 2025-2030.
Dzulkefly said the new approach would run on two levels.
"At the international level, I will bring this to the World Health Assembly (WHA), and at the national level we have identified seven government clinics as pilot projects," he said.
Disease Control Division Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) deputy director Dr Noraryana Hassan said the screenings had already begun.
"We have already begun screenings in collaboration with around 15 companies involving about 400 workers," she said.
The seven clinics are Klinik Kesihatan Seberang (Penang), Klinik Kesihatan Kok Lanas (Kelantan), Klinik Kesihatan Kajang (Selangor), Klinik Kesihatan Luyang (Sabah), Klinik Kesihatan Beserah (Pahang), Klinik Kesihatan Pendang (Kedah) and Klinik Kesihatan Batu 9 Cheras (Kuala Lumpur).
"These clinics will be linked to nearby hospitals for follow-up treatment and CT scans," said Noraryana.
She said participants flagged for concerns would undergo a low-dose CT scan (LDCT) to further confirm the findings.
"Screening will be followed by interventions where necessary," she added.
"With conventional chest X-rays, sometimes our eyes cannot detect small nodules or swellings. With AI technology, we can identify such nodules more effectively," Noraryana explained.
The cost of installing AI software in each clinic is about RM10,000 as a one-off expense.
"The software can be used by other clinics connected to the same system, so there is no need to instal it in every health clinic," she said.
"This investment is considered minimal compared to the public health returns we anticipate," she added.
On Feb 26, the ministry launched the Lung Health Initiative Malaysia 2025-2030 as a proactive measure, focusing on preventive steps and awareness campaigns about contributors to the disease, such as smoking, air pollution, and occupational hazards.
Besides this, the initiative also focuses on treatment and rehabilitation by improving access to faster and more efficient treatment.