Introducing AI Melanoma: A Revolutionary Skin Cancer Prevention Tool Unveiled in France
In a significant advancement in skin cancer prevention, AI Melanoma was unveiled on May 27, 2024, at Maison de l’étudiant, located on the campus of Guyancourt at the University of Versailles-Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines (UVSQ). Developed by the Parisian company H4D, this groundbreaking device utilizes telemedicine and artificial intelligence (AI) to detect melanoma at an early stage. The process is simple: during a teleconsultation, the attending general practitioner asks the patient questions to gather their medical history. Then, the patient is instructed to use a dermatoscope to take a photo of the affected area (such as the arms, legs, or body). The practitioner analyzes the image and sends it to an AI software. Valérie Cossutta, the President of H4D, explained that “The AI provides a preliminary diagnosis and confirms the doctor’s opinion. It acts as a super assistant. If there is suspicion, the patient is directed to a dermatologist.”
To introduce the AI Melanoma to the public, students and staff at the university had the opportunity to test this innovative tool free of charge and without an appointment in the telemedicine cabin that has been installed on the campus for several weeks. Denis, a 60-year-old participant, shared his experience: “It’s a fantastic initiative. It is worth doing it,” he said after having two moles on his arm and armpit examined by the doctor. “I will make an appointment with a dermatologist.”
Beyond offering convenience and accessibility, this event aimed to raise awareness about the early diagnosis of melanoma, an urgent public health concern. “In France, there are 80,000 cases of skin cancer each year, across all age groups,” stated Valérie Cossutta. She emphasized the sharp rise in melanoma cases among young people, increasing by more than 15% annually.
Early detection of melanoma plays a crucial role in optimizing recovery and survival rates. Elise, a 30-year-old woman from Bazemont, can attest to this. A decade ago, she noticed “a white spot on [her] temple. [She] did not know what it was until it was revealed to be melanoma.” Elise received exceptional care at Ambroise-Paré Hospital in Boulogne-Billancourt. However, seven years later, she experienced a relapse and had to undergo Stage 4 tumor surgery. Since May 2022, Elise has been in remission. acknowledging that “there is nothing left, no more lesions,” she remains cautious, stating, “one can never be completely safe.” Elise has since become a volunteer at the France Asso Cancer et Peau association.
For those interested in getting tested, the opportunity will arise again during the health bus tour in Yvelines. The bus will visit La Verrière on June 7th, Ablis on June 11th, and Bréval on June 27th.
Once doctors at H4D are trained, the AI Melanoma device is expected to be operational by the end of June in the company’s 200 telemedicine cabins spread across France. This significant development in skin cancer prevention, powered by cutting-edge technology, brings hope to countless individuals by offering early detection and intervention. With its ability to assist doctors and provide preliminary diagnoses, AI Melanoma has the potential to revolutionize the way skin cancer is detected and treated, ultimately saving lives.
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