Leading efforts to improve early detection of melanoma

Who Eureka Prize winners from the ACRF Australian Centre of Excellence in Melanoma Imaging and Diagnosis.

What With more than 18,000 cases of melanoma diagnosed annually in Australia, the ACRF Australian Centre of Excellence in Melanoma Imaging and Diagnosis leads efforts to improve early detection and build a national targeted melanoma screening program. Drawing from a multidisciplinary team, they utilise AI-assisted 3D imaging technologies to conduct the world's largest preventive melanoma study.

Winner of the 2024 Aspire Scholarship Eureka Prize for Excellence in Interdisciplinary Scientific Research.

How can AI improve assisted imaging technologies?

AI for early melanoma detection is still in the early stages of research, but it's showing promising potential. Current AI technologies we are testing are primarily focused on improving accuracy in identifying suspicious skin lesions and differentiating between benign and malignant ones. Although progress is being made, there is still much to be learned about optimising AI algorithms and integrating them effectively into clinical practice. As research advances, we expect AI to become a more reliable tool in melanoma early detection to assist clinicians, leading to faster and more accurate diagnoses. Our studies will refine these technologies and ensure their effectiveness before roll-out in in real-world settings.

Your team has conducted the world’s largest preventative melanoma study. How did this come about, and can you tell us a little bit about its impact?

The ACRF Australian Centre of Excellence in Melanoma Imaging and Diagnosis (ACEMID) was launched in 2018 by an infrastructure grant from the Australian Cancer Research Foundation. Since then, we have established 15 3D total body skin imaging sites in a telemedicine research network spanning metropolitan and regional areas of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. Led by the University of Queensland with University of Sydney and Monash University, ACEMID partners with hospital and health service sites, eHealth entities, research institutions, and consumer groups.

From that base ACEMID is recruiting the world’s largest melanoma cohort study: 15,000 individuals over three years with low, average or high risk of melanoma. We are collecting imaging, survey, clinical, biological (such as saliva and tissue), and histopathological data. The study is providing a unique and detailed dataset from a real-world group of people in Australia. It is providing valuable insights into effective early detection measures and will help provide the evidence base for developing a national, targeted melanoma screening program in Australia.

This research has been so successful because of its interdisciplinary nature. Can you share with our readers the different disciplines that have been involved in this research, and what contributions they have made?

In our melanoma research, the saying "it takes a village" rings particularly true. This research has thrived due to the collaboration of diverse disciplines including dermatology, oncology, data science, medical imaging, artificial intelligence, information technology, public health, genetics, proteomics, health economics, statistics and epidemiology among others. For example, dermatologists provide expertise in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, while artificial intelligence and data scientists develop and refine algorithms for imaging analysis. Public health experts contribute to designing and implementing the study protocols and analysing population-level impacts. Epidemiologists offer insights into risk assessments and preventive measures. Health economists analyse the cost-effectiveness of digitally driven early detection strategies, ensuring efficient resource use and understanding their economic impact on healthcare systems. Each discipline’s unique perspective and skills have been vital in advancing our understanding and management of melanoma.

What might readers find surprising about the field of melanoma research?

We were surprised by the overwhelming excitement patients have shown for 3D imaging technology. We were flooded with a high volume of participants eager to be involved in our studies. It was clear that the advanced nature of 3D total body imaging resonated deeply with patients, who appreciated the ability to visually monitor their skin health. This enthusiastic response shows how impactful 3D imaging can be in engaging patients in early detection strategies.

What are the practical benefits that the broader population might experience due to your research?

The broader population stands to benefit from our research through improved early detection and prevention of melanoma. If shown to be effective, enhanced imaging technologies and AI-assisted diagnostics may lead to quicker, more accurate diagnoses, allowing for earlier intervention and better treatment outcomes, particularly in regional areas where access to specialists is limited. Ultimately, our goal is to create a world where melanoma is eradicated, and late-stage treatment is unnecessary because we detect it early and prevent it through effective sun protection.

What does winning a Eureka Prize mean to you?

Winning a Eureka Prize is a tremendous honour that recognises the hard work and dedication of our entire research team. It validates the interdisciplinary approach we’ve taken and highlights the significance of our contributions to the field of melanoma research. This accolade not only brings visibility to our work but also provides a platform to further advocate for advancements in skin cancer prevention and early detection. It inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of science and technology and makes us proud of the positive impact our research can have on the Australian population.

The Australian Museum Eureka Prizes are the country’s most comprehensive national science awards, honouring excellence across the areas of research & innovation, leadership, science engagement, and school science.