In Russia, Neural Networks Are Checking X-rays for Cancer and Tuberculosis

Authorities in the Perm region of Russia have integrated artificial intelligence into their healthcare system, using neural networks as a 'second doctor' to boost diagnostic accuracy.

The regional Ministry of Health in Perm announced the successful implementation of advanced artificial intelligence algorithms in its healthcare system. The technology is actively used to analyze medical images, serving as a backup for human doctors and significantly improving diagnostic precision, according to local media.

Deputy Health Minister of the Perm region, Oksana Melyokhova, said during a meeting of the Social Policy Committee that the most prominent project so far is the use of AI to review chest X-rays and mammograms. The system follows a dual-control principle: first, the scan is analyzed by a radiologist or mammologist, and then checked again by the algorithm. This approach reduces the risk of human error and increases the chances of detecting tuberculosis and breast cancer at the earliest and most treatable stages.

At the same time, telemedicine services in the Perm region are expanding. According to official statistics, nearly 55,000 remote consultations were conducted in 2025, an increase of 8.2 percent over the previous year. Telemedicine is most popular among patients of ophthalmologists, cardiologists, and oncologists.

It is also worth noting that the use of AI in Perm’s healthcare is not limited to image analysis. The technology has already been applied to processing electronic medical records and assisting doctors in selecting the best treatment strategies for patients.