A companion between appointments: Hong Kong student’s AI tool for cancer patients

In Hong Kong, a medical student has developed an AI-powered digital companion called CancerCompanion to provide emotional support for cancer patients between doctor visits. Claudia Chan Shu-ying, a CUHK student, is working on the project as a year out from her medical degree to complete a master’s in research medicine. The AI chatbot uses structured conversations to offer support, directs medical inquiries to healthcare teams, and flags self-harm or suicidal language for human review.

Chan herself has spoken with cancer patients and survivors during community health screenings, hearing about the emotional struggles they face when no one is available to talk to. The system is designed to complement, not replace, professional mental health care, and is intended primarily for those with mild emotional difficulties.

A clinical study assessing the impact on patients' mental health and quality of life has received ethics approval. The AI draws on cognitive behavioral therapy principles and the team has filed a US provisional patent for the conversational system. Patient input guided the project from the start, with survivors, NGO staff, and professors reviewing earlier versions.

Chan acknowledges her teammates, advisers, and advisers from across CUHK for their contributions. The Spirit of Hong Kong Awards, which recognize unsung heroes and organizations, will honor CancerCompanion's development.