The NHS has launched a pioneering pilot combining artificial intelligence and robotic technology to diagnose lung cancer faster. The project, led by Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, aims to replace weeks of invasive testing with a single targeted procedure. Officials call it "a glimpse of the future of cancer detection."
The technology uses AI software to analyze lung scans and identify suspicious nodules. Doctors then guide a robotic catheter through the patient's throat to take precise biopsies from these spots. The system can reach nodules as small as 6mm, often hidden deep in the lung where traditional methods struggle.
Guy's and St Thomas' has already performed 300 robotic biopsy procedures. Of these, 215 patients went on to receive cancer treatment. The new pilot will involve a further 250 patients and expand to King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust.
Professor Peter Johnson, NHS England's national clinical director for cancer, said: "Waiting to find out if you might have cancer is incredibly stressful for patients and their families. Our lung cancer screening programme means that we are picking up more cancers at an early stage than ever, and by bringing AI and robotics together in this trailblazing NHS pilot, we're bringing in the very latest technology to give clinicians a clearer look inside the lungs and support faster, more accurate biopsies. This is a glimpse of the future of cancer detection."
Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who underwent robotic surgery for kidney cancer, emphasized the life-changing potential of the technology. He said: "When I was diagnosed with kidney cancer, the NHS saved my life using robotic technology. That experience showed me what's possible when brilliant clinicians have access to cutting-edge innovation – it saves lives. Lung cancer is one of the biggest killers in the UK and this pilot will help to catch it earlier, replacing weeks of invasive testing with a single targeted procedure. For patients waiting anxiously for answers, this speed and precision can be life-changing."
David Lindsay, an IT contractor from Streatham, experienced the benefits firsthand. Referred to Guy's Hospital in September 2025 for a suspected blood clot in his left leg, scans unexpectedly picked up a lung nodule. The robotic procedure confirmed stage one lung cancer. Lindsay said: "It was quick and painless. I wasn't worried because all the staff made me feel comfortable and assured. They clearly explained the findings and after a comprehensive discussion, it was agreed that removal of the cancer was the best option in this instance. The operation was a success."
He added: "My blood clot was a blessing in disguise. If it hadn't occurred, I wouldn't have had the scan, and various tests, and they wouldn't have seen the cancer. Who knows when I would have had another check-up? And the next time, the cancer may have reached stage four."
Screening expansion
The pilot announcement coincides with NHS plans to dramatically expand lung cancer screening. The service, which began trials in 2019 and rolled out nationally in 2023, has already screened more than 1.5 million people. The NHS aims to invite a further 1.4 million people next year alone, targeting everyone aged 55 to 74 who has ever smoked.
The program expects to diagnose up to 50,000 cancers by 2035, with at least 23,000 caught at an earlier stage. All eligible people should receive their first screening check by 2030.
Lung cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK. More than 49,000 people are diagnosed annually, and around 33,000 die from the disease each year.
The announcements come as the Government prepares to publish its National Cancer Plan, which will focus on boosting prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
