17.2 million euros for AI to combat cancer
The Federal Ministry of Education and Research wants to use artificial intelligence to make cancer surgery more precise and is funding multiple research projects.
Berlin (dpa) – The Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) is launching the funding line entitled “KIOn – AI-assisted Precision Surgery in Oncology” as part of the National Decade Against Cancer. The aim is to use artificial intelligence in cancer surgery to make procedures safer and more precise. The measure is part of the German government’s high-tech strategy that specifically promotes research and innovation in socially relevant areas.
Federal Research Minister Dorothee Bär explained: “We are using AI to introduce precision into the operating theatre – to reduce complications and provide a better quality of life. Germany has excellent research and medical skills. We are combining the two to shape the future of cancer surgery.”
By 2028, projects totalling 17.2 million euros will be funded, including BESTFIT for the treatment of head and neck cancer, HARMONIE for the localisation of breast tumours, KIRAL for the planning of liver surgery and INTEGER for the precise removal of bone tumours. AI is intended to reduce risks, improve healing processes and strengthen German cancer research internationally.
