PhD defence T.E. (Tobias) Sangers

Brief summary: 

In the Netherlands, the incidence of skin cancer is increasing at an alarming rate, placing growing pressure on the healthcare system. Fortunately, technological innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI) and health apps (mHealth) offer promising solutions to improve diagnostics.

One of the studies in this thesis showed that a simple selfie, analyzed by an AI tool, can predict skin cancer more accurately than traditional risk factors. This opens the door to a quick and accessible way to identify high-risk patients. Additionally, a mHealth AI app was extensively tested, allowing users to photograph suspicious spots and receive an immediate risk assessment. Although the app proved highly sensitive in detecting skin cancer, it occasionally gave false alarms. A follow-up population study, conducted in collaboration with a major Dutch health insurer, confirmed that the app can help detect more cases of skin cancer, but also led to extra doctor visits for benign skin spots.

Qualitative research showed that both healthcare providers and patients are open to these technologies, although concerns remain about accuracy and the role of the physician. Nevertheless, they see significant benefits, such as increased awareness and better early detection of skin cancer.

The studies in this thesis highlight the great potential of AI and health apps but also emphasize the need for further development and regulation to ensure these technologies are deployed effectively and reliably.