Using AI and advanced imaging to improve colorectal cancer prevention.

BCCMA: VA Colorectal Cancer Clinical & Computational Collaborative (VA-5C): Project #2 - Artificial Intelligence and Multispectral Imaging of Colorectal Polyps.

NIH-funded research VA Boston Health Care System · NIH-10918837

This study is working on a smart tool that helps doctors spot and check for polyps during colonoscopies in veterans, making it easier to prevent colorectal cancer and reducing the need for extra tests.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA Boston Health Care System NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10918837 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance the prevention of colorectal cancer (CRC) in veterans by developing an artificial intelligence (AI)-based platform that provides real-time histology assessments during colonoscopy. By utilizing multispectral imaging, the project seeks to accurately identify and assess colorectal polyps, reducing unnecessary biopsies and associated costs. The goal is to create a widely adoptable tool that improves the efficiency and accuracy of polyp management, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes. This collaborative effort involves multiple VA centers and focuses on CRC precursors as key targets for intervention.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans undergoing colonoscopy who may have colorectal polyps.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have colorectal polyps or are not veterans may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the accuracy of polyp assessments during colonoscopy, leading to better prevention strategies for colorectal cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using AI for medical imaging, indicating potential success for this novel approach in colorectal cancer prevention.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.