Artificial Intelligence Research in Oncology: Analysis of 195 Clinical Trials
A new analysis reveals that artificial intelligence in oncology clinical trials is being tested with a focus on diagnosis and communication rather than treatment decisions.
An examination of 195 clinical trials initiated by the beginning of 2026 revealed that artificial intelligence is evaluated more as a reader, communicator, and diagnostic support tool rather than assuming a treatment-determining role in the field of oncology.
Scope and Distribution of Clinical Trials
In the review analysis conducted via PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov records, studies starting in 2026 and later were examined in detail.
Out of a total of 195 search records, 157 were classified to reveal current trends in the use of artificial intelligence in oncology.
Diagnosis and Communication-Focused Approaches
The findings indicate that the majority of registered clinical trials focus on detection, diagnosis, prognosis, patient communication, and supportive care.
The categories of diagnosis and patient communication alone account for approximately 60 percent of the entire studied study set.
Treatment Planning and Selection Processes
There are only twelve clinical trials that directly incorporate artificial intelligence outputs into treatment selection or treatment planning workflows.
In a study coded PAN-NeoVax, an artificial intelligence-derived mRNA vaccine is being directly tested as an investigational product.
Hematological Cancers and Future Steps
Hematological malignancies remain largely absent from the diagnosis and treatment selection categories, with only five studies identified outside of these roles.
Experts emphasize that clinical validation is a critical step for artificial intelligence to become ready for routine care processes.