The new platform is designed to help doctors make faster and more consistent clinical decisions.
Abu Dhabi: M42’s National Reference Laboratory (NRL) has introduced a new artificial intelligence-powered tool for prostate cancer diagnostics in the UAE through a collaboration with digital pathology company Qritive.
The initiative is designed to support faster and more consistent detection of prostate cancer, one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among men worldwide.
Officials said the technology will be integrated into NRL’s diagnostic workflow at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, helping pathologists review tissue samples more efficiently while supporting clinical decision-making.
The AI-powered system analyses digital pathology slides, highlights suspicious areas, and provides structured insights to help specialists detect cancer and assess its severity.
Experts emphasised that the technology is intended to support doctors rather than replace them, with final clinical decisions remaining with medical professionals.
Dr Laila Abdel Wareth said artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly important tool in pathology, helping specialists make complex decisions with greater confidence and efficiency.
She added that technologies such as the Qritive platform can improve diagnostic accuracy, reduce variation in interpretation, and support better patient outcomes—particularly in conditions such as prostate cancer, where treatment decisions depend heavily on precise grading.
The system is designed to identify cancerous tissue, assess tumour patterns, and support grading in line with internationally recognised standards. It can also help measure tumour burden and highlight areas that may require closer examination.
Dr Shweta Narang said the introduction of AI-powered diagnostics would help healthcare providers manage rising demand while giving patients and doctors faster access to critical information.
She added that the initiative reflects NRL’s commitment to enhancing cancer diagnostics and improving patient outcomes across the UAE.
According to officials, prostate cancer remains a growing health concern across the Middle East, with an estimated 50,000 new cases diagnosed each year. The process of reviewing and grading biopsies can be complex and time-consuming, sometimes leading to delays in diagnosis.
Bruno Occhipinti said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to using technology to support pathologists, as healthcare systems face rising demand and increasing disease prevalence.
The introduction of the new system is part of NRL’s broader strategy to enhance its oncology services and expand the use of digital pathology and artificial intelligence across its diagnostic operations.
