New development: Scientists create lollipops with different flavors to aid in detecting mouth cancer.

New development: Scientists create lollipops with different flavors to aid in detecting mouth cancer.

Researchers are currently working on “tasty lollipops” that could potentially detect mouth cancer without the need for uncomfortable and intrusive procedures.

The researchers suggest that their lollipop may serve as a more efficient and compassionate option for use in primary care locations, such as general practitioner clinics.

The University of Birmingham’s researchers created a substance called smart hydrogel that is utilized in the production of lollipops.

The concept is for individuals to consume the lollipop, depositing a saliva sample into the hydrogel.

The scientists explained that the hydrogel functions similarly to a fishing net, trapping proteins – including saliva- that may serve as indicators of cancer.

Source: independent.co.uk