ChatGPT is not your GP: Leading breast surgeon warns against relying on AI for breast health
Announcement posted by Invigorate PR 18 Feb 2026
One of Australia's leading breast cancer surgeons, Associate Professor Sanjay Warrier, is issuing a strong warning to Australian women: do not rely on artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT to diagnose or manage breast symptoms. ChatGPT is not your GP and it is not your friend when it comes to health matters and issues as important as breast cancer.
With more Australians turning to online platforms for health advice, Associate Professor Warrier said there is a dangerous trend emerging where women are entering breast symptoms into AI tools instead of seeing a doctor.
"ChatGPT is not a health service. It cannot examine you, it cannot feel a lump and it cannot assess your individual risk," Associate Professor Warrier said.
"If you have a breast concern, you need a clinical examination and appropriate imaging. AI cannot replace a GP or specialist.
"I put a question into ChatGPT about redness on the breast and it suggested that I wait a few weeks to see if it improved. Some cancers are so aggressive that a few weeks can mean the difference between life and death.
"This just proves that ChatGPT is dangerous."
Delay can cost lives
Breast cancer remains the most common cancer affecting Australian women, with more than 21,000 diagnosed each year. Early detection remains one of the strongest predictors of survival.
Associate Professor Warrier, whose practice spans four Sydney locations including the Chris O'Brien Lifehouse in Camperdown and his newly opened rooms in Campbelltown, said he is concerned that reliance on digital advice may delay diagnosis.
"Time matters. My experience with ChatGPT reinforces this," he said.
"If a woman notices a lump, nipple discharge, skin dimpling or persistent breast pain, she should not be typing it into a chatbot hoping for reassurance. She should be booking an appointment."
He warned that while AI tools can provide general information, they cannot assess nuance, subtle physical changes or individual medical history.
False reassurance is the real risk
Associate Professor Warrier said the greatest danger is not misinformation but misplaced confidence.
"If an online tool suggests something is likely benign, some people will delay seeking proper care," he said.
"Breast cancer does not always present in textbook ways. It can be subtle and it can be silent. Only proper assessment through a GP and, if needed, imaging such as ultrasound or mammogram can provide clarity."
He emphasised that AI platforms are designed to provide general educational responses, not medical diagnosis.
The importance of proper medical pathways
In addition to his clinical work, Associate Professor Warrier is heavily involved in breast cancer research and co-developed Australasia's first Master of Advanced Surgery in Breast Surgery through the University of Sydney.
He said the medical system is structured for a reason.
"There is a clear pathway for breast health concerns: GP assessment, referral where necessary, imaging, biopsy if required and specialist management," he said.
"That pathway exists to protect patients. Skipping steps introduces risk."
Technology has a role, but not this one
Associate Professor Warrier acknowledged that technology and digital tools can improve education and awareness and also synthesise information faster, but he said they must not replace clinical judgement.
"Technology can support healthcare but it cannot substitute it," he said.
"If something doesn't feel right, if you've noticed a change or if you are worried, the safest and smartest step is to see a doctor."
A clear message for Australian women
Associate Professor Warrier's message is simple and direct.
"Do not put your breast symptoms into AI and assume you have your answer," he said.
"Put your health first. See your GP. Early detection saves lives."
More information on breast cancer detection and screening is available at
www.drsanjaywarrier.com.au.
About Associate Professor Sanjay Warrier
Associate Professor Sanjay Warrier is a past President and current committee member of Breast Surgeons of Australia and New Zealand (BreastSurgANZ). His views are those of his own, not BreastSurgANZ. Associate Professor Warrier's surgery is located at the Chris O'Brien Lifehouse and he also has clinics at Oxford Street, Bondi Junction and Macquarie Street, Sydney. He is published in numerous peer-reviewed journals and won the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital's Patron's Prize for best scientific research. In addition, he was also recently recognised on the international stage, receiving the India Australia Business and Community Alliance (IABCA) Australia India Science, Research and Development Award at the organisation's Gala in Mumbai. The award, one of the most significant honours across the Australia-India corridor, acknowledges outstanding contributions to science and research that strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations.