In a groundbreaking development at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Edward Wang, a talented MD/PhD candidate, is harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance the speed and accuracy of radiation treatment planning for lung cancer patients. His innovative approach targets a common yet complex issue faced by oncologists—effectively treating lung metastases where cancer spreads from other body parts.

Lung metastases present a daunting challenge; identifying these cancerous spots is notoriously difficult. The primary struggle lies in delivering the precise radiation dosage that eradicates cancer cells while sparing healthy lung tissue. Traditional processes for calculating radiation doses are time-consuming, often inhibiting rapid comparison of treatment plans.

Wang's research centers on enhancing stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT), a specialized radiation technique that can simultaneously target multiple lesions within the lungs. Using AI, he aims to empower medical professionals by developing a tool that estimates and ranks potential treatment options based on effectiveness and safety.

"Our AI-driven tool allows medical staff to optimize treatment plans by carefully evaluating each possible approach, leading to better patient outcomes," Wang explained.

The 28-year-old researcher hails from Vancouver, B.C., where his journey began with a degree in chemical and biological engineering from the University of British Columbia. Inspired by firsthand experiences while working with surgeons, he pursued a dual degree in medicine and research at Schulich Medicine beginning in 2020—a timely move as AI's relevance in healthcare was escalating.

Recognizing the growing importance of AI, Wang stated, "Interest in this technology has surged in recent years, and I wanted to be at the forefront of this evolution. Studying at Western, where there is a reputable imaging program, was a strategic choice."

For his groundbreaking work, Wang has earned the prestigious 2023-2024 Vanier Scholarship, an accolade bestowed upon individuals who exemplify high scholarly achievement and leadership.

The challenges presented by multiple metastases require a unique solution. Wang expressed the complexity of creating tailored treatment plans that effectively dodge radiation overdose to healthy organs—a problem that has remained static in conventional methodologies for too long.

To tackle these challenges, Wang collaborates with esteemed mentors like Dr. Sarah Mattonen and Dr. Pencilla Lang. Together, they have developed an innovative AI program capable of predicting radiation distribution in the lungs quickly and accurately, a critical advancement for oncologists.

Looking ahead, the team aims to integrate this AI tool into standard protocols at the London Regional Cancer Program, paving the way for a transformative shift in how cancer care is delivered. With just the right technology, the future of cancer treatment may soon be at our fingertips, bringing hope to countless patients around the globe.