Scientists are developing a device that fits in a bra and can monitor whether a breast cancer tumor is growing.
Researchers hope the device will provide a new, non-invasive method of detecting tumor growth that patients can use ‘in the comfort of their own home’.
The device, being developed by Nottingham Trent University’s (NTU) Medical Technologies Innovation Facility, will use an electrical current to scan and detect small changes in fluids inside and outside the cells of the breast.
Because tumor tissue is denser than healthy tissue and contains less water, the device can measure tumor changes and growth in real time down to as small as 2 mm.
Researchers say the device could be used as an insert in a patient’s bra or developed as a new bra that incorporates the device, which records data and sends it to the wearer and their medical team via a smartphone. The team behind it aims to clinically test the device within the next few years.
“The technology would measure changes in breast tissue and help improve a patient’s chance of survival,” said Dr Yang Wei, an expert in electronic textiles and electronic engineering at NTU. “Breast cancer can grow so quickly; it can be 1mm in six months or 2mm in six weeks. This would be an additional measure to see how fast the tumor is growing.
“We are opening the door to research into an alternative detection of breast cancer that can be done in the comfort of the patient’s home, saving vital hospital resources while providing a viable solution to detect early signs of cancer.”
According to Cancer researchThere are more than 55,000 new cases of breast cancer and more than 11,000 deaths in Britain every year. About 23% of new cases are preventable.
Researchers hope the device will improve the vital work of monitoring tumors, which can be difficult to perform precisely, especially in tumors smaller than 1 cm. MRI scans can be months apart, with the possibility of significant growth between hospital visits.
Dr. Simon Vincent, director of research, support and influencing at Breast cancer nowsaid research into better detection and treatment of breast cancer was urgently needed.
“While this new technology could provide a new way to monitor the growth of breast cancer tumors and we look forward to seeing the final results, the device has not yet been tested in humans and there is much more we need to understand before we can consider it. whether or not it can be used in medical settings,” he said.
“Anyone affected by breast cancer can speak to Breast Cancer Now’s expert nurses by calling our free helpline on 0808 800 6000 for information and support.”