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Researchers are currently working on a miniature device that has the potential to be inserted into a bra and could potentially save numerous lives.
The device is expected to potentially save the lives of patients in the future by continuously monitoring the growth of tumors.
It would track the growth of a breast cancer tumor.
Researchers at NTU’s Medical Technologies Innovation Facility are developing a technology that utilizes electrical current to identify minute variations in fluids both within and outside of cells.
The device can detect changes and growth in tumors, even as small as 2mm, because tumor tissue is denser and has lower water content compared to healthy tissue.
The researchers are optimistic about the potential of this non-invasive technology. It could potentially be inserted into a patient’s bra or developed as a new bra with the device incorporated. This technology would be used alongside treatment and routine screenings.
Information will be logged and transmitted to both the user and medical professional through a smartphone, allowing for evaluations to be conducted regarding development.
Scientists are optimistic that this could potentially lessen the necessity for numerous additional screenings and result in cost savings for healthcare providers.
Continuous observation is crucial because the growth of tumors can vary greatly among individuals and it is extremely challenging to accurately monitor, especially for growths under 1cm.
The scientists state that MRI scans may be spaced out over several months and there is a possibility of substantial development in the time between hospital appointments.
Cancer cells are densely packed compared to normal cells and have lower water content.
NTU electronic textiles and electronic engineering expert Dr. Yang Wei stated that using this technology would track modifications in breast tissue and boost a patient’s likelihood of surviving.
“Breast cancer can grow so quickly, it could be 1mm in six months or 2mm in six weeks. This would be an additional measure to see how fast the tumour grows.
“We are granting access to exploring an alternative method of detecting breast cancer that can be performed in the convenience of a patient’s home. This preserves crucial hospital resources while still allowing for an effective way to identify early indications of cancer.”
More than 55,000 individuals are diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK annually, resulting in over 11,000 fatalities.
The researchers have improved the electronic capabilities and will now focus on fine-tuning and verifying the technology.
Dr Simon Vincent, director of research, support and influencing at Breast Cancer Now, said: “With over 55,000 people being diagnosed with breast cancer every year in the UK, and 11,000 sadly dying from the disease, research looking at how we can better detect and treat breast cancer is urgently needed.
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The potential of this new technology in monitoring the development of breast cancer tumors is exciting, but we must await the final findings. However, before we can deem it suitable for medical use, further research is required as the device has not yet been tested on human subjects.
“Individuals impacted by breast cancer have the opportunity to communicate with knowledgeable nurses from Breast Cancer Now for guidance and assistance by dialing our toll-free helpline at 0808 800 6000.”
Their goal is to conduct clinical trials with the device in the coming years.
The source is the independent.co.uk website.
