Virgil Miller, president of Aflac Incorporated and Aflac U.S., cautions that artificial intelligence should act as a copilot rather than the driver of healthcare decisions. He points out that a recent study shows 76% of Gen Z adults and 63% of millennials now turn to AI as their first source of primary health information, often before consulting a doctor.
Why the rise of AI matters for cancer detection
AI can quickly search symptoms, decode medical terminology and highlight potential risks. However, Miller stresses that knowing more does not equal knowing what to do next, especially when it comes to cancer. Consistent physician care remains the most reliable way to identify serious conditions that may not be obvious from isolated symptoms.
Limits of technology in personal health
Even with sophisticated tools, AI cannot accompany a patient to an appointment, perform a mammogram or colonoscopy, or review a personal health history to connect new patterns. Research on cancer-screening behaviour confirms that encouragement from a trusted person often prompts individuals to get screened, underscoring that human interaction, not screen-based information, is the most powerful intervention.
What comes next for individuals and insurers
Miller urges people to lead their own health journeys, using AI to prepare questions and understand screening options, but ultimately relying on doctors for diagnosis and treatment. For insurers like Aflac, missed screenings and delayed diagnoses translate into higher claim costs, reinforcing the need for proactive, doctor-led care.
By treating AI as a supportive tool rather than a substitute for professional advice, patients can move from uncertainty to action and improve outcomes in the fight against cancer.