Comprehensive Summary
Shal et al. questions the ethical implication of artificial intelligence-based apps aimed at early detection of skin cancer. The authors performed such an analysis on SkinVision and Scanoma, two popular skin cancer apps. Applying systematic search principles based on previously established and accepted ethical issues within the scientific realm, Shal et al. determined that one app failed to provide details about how its algorithms were developed and its decision-making protocol. Another concern was the consistency and quality of the studies used to assess the efficacy of the app-base algorithms. Finally, limited efforts were made within each of the apps to cater to certain demographics, namely the elderly and those with darker skin types. These findings suggest that “bioethical norms” must be considered to ensure that the apps produced for these medical aims meet the needs of those they set out to help.
Outcomes and Implications
The research conducted by Shal et al. helps elucidate the various ethical problems that can arise with the use of AI tools. Importantly, with these concerns being brought to the attention of the scientific community, the corresponding changes can be made to ensure that the healthcare we provide is accessible, equitable, and ethical. Widespread application of this bioethical protocol is recommended not only within the dermatology field but other medical specialties so that this equity is far-reaching. The sharing of these systematic analytic techniques across the scientific community is of high value and importance.