Could AI Replace Colonoscopies For Cancer?

Could AI help detect colon cancer without a colonoscopy? Millions avoid colonoscopies because they’re invasive, expensive, or hard to access—allowing colorectal cancer to progress undetected. Scientists at the University of Geneva are developing an AI-powered at-home stool test that analyzes the gut microbiome to identify early signs of colon cancer. In research datasets, it detected about 90% of cases. It won’t replace colonoscopies—but it could help doctors decide who truly needs one, improving early detection, expanding access to screening, and potentially saving lives worldwide.