The University of Hong Kong (HKU) has set a new milestone in healthcare by opening the world’s first artificial intelligence (AI) clinic dedicated to the early detection and prevention of oral cancer. Launched in partnership with the Prince Philip Dental Hospital (PPDH), this groundbreaking clinic aims to provide better care and outcomes for patients at risk of oral cancer.
Opened in April 2025, the clinic focuses on treating patients with oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD). These disorders, including oral leukoplakia and oral lichenoid diseases, can develop into oral cancer if not treated properly. The need for such a facility is pressing; in Hong Kong, about 60% of oral cancer cases are diagnosed in advanced stages when treatment is less effective.
At the heart of this clinic is a specially designed AI tool called OralCancerPredict. Developed by HKU’s Faculty of Dentistry in 2021, this tool assesses patients’ risk of developing oral cancer based on various factors. It analyzes a wide range of data, including patient demographics, clinical symptoms, and medical history. With an impressive accuracy rate of 94%, OralCancerPredict outperforms traditional diagnostics, providing doctors with a reliable framework for making treatment decisions.
The clinic’s approach is proactive. It categorizes patients into high-risk or low-risk groups. Those deemed high-risk may require surgical intervention, while low-risk patients can often be monitored and supported with counseling instead of undergoing unnecessary surgeries. This strategy not only optimizes resources but also helps ensure that patients receive the care they truly need.
Professor Richard Su, who leads the clinic, underscores the importance of this new service. “By using AI, we can enhance diagnostic precision and support healthcare professionals in making informed decisions,” he says. Alongside a multidisciplinary team of experts, Su aims to create a holistic care environment for all patients.
Accessibility is another key feature of the clinic. Patients do not face additional costs for using the AI technology or undergoing extra tests, making it an equitable choice for those in need. A referral from a general dental or medical practitioner is all that is required to access the clinic’s services.
As healthcare systems worldwide look for effective solutions to early detection of cancer, HKU’s AI clinic is setting a transformative example. By integrating AI into routine care, the clinic hopes to make a significant impact not only in Hong Kong but also as a model for future healthcare innovations globally.
-Rashmi Kumari
