Following its success in meeting the World Health Organization’s targets for the elimination of hepatitis C, Taiwan is intensifying its public health initiatives to combat hepatitis B and enhance early detection of liver cancer. According to Minister of Health and Welfare Shih Chung-liang, the new phase of Taiwan’s health strategy will prioritize the reduction of hepatitis B infections, bolster liver cancer screening processes, and address liver diseases not caused by viruses, such as those related to obesity-induced fatty liver disease.
Liver cancer continues to be a significant health challenge in Taiwan, ranking as the second-highest cause of cancer-related mortality, with over 7,000 deaths annually. Health officials have noted that approximately 40 percent of liver cancer cases are identified at advanced stages, which diminishes the efficacy of treatments and escalates healthcare expenditures. In response, health authorities are crafting a new national cancer control program that features a liver cancer risk assessment model specifically designed for the Taiwanese population. This program also aims to tackle non-viral liver cancer, a growing concern in the healthcare landscape.
In a collaborative effort to support these health initiatives, the Good Liver Foundation has joined forces with experts in the medical and technology fields to create “iGood Liver AI.” This artificial intelligence-powered ultrasound tool is engineered to detect and evaluate liver tumors in real time. By highlighting areas of concern, the software aids in distinguishing between benign and malignant tumors during standard examinations.
Medical professionals emphasize that this AI technology is not intended to replace doctors but rather to serve as an auxiliary diagnostic tool that enhances detection rates and minimizes the likelihood of missed diagnoses. To further improve access to healthcare, the Good Liver Foundation has obtained funding to distribute 50 units of the AI system to medical facilities in remote and underserved regions, thereby broadening the scope of liver disease screening and early intervention services throughout Taiwan.