A new breast cancer screening method has been announced by University of Florida researchers in collaboration with National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University.
The method, published in the ‘Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology’, uses a portable device that can identify breast cancer biomarkers in just five seconds, using a saliva sample and at a cost of less than five euros.
According to the ‘Cancer Figures, 2024’ study by the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM), breast cancer is one of the most common diseases among women worldwide, with more than 35,000 new cases diagnosed every year in Spain.
Although mammography is the main screening tool, this new method offers a revolutionary and accessible alternative.
The device works by using paper test strips treated with specific antibodies that interact with cancer biomarkers.
How do you know you have cancer?
Once a saliva sample is placed on the strip, an electrical pulse is applied to measure the presence of biomarkers. Even with extremely low concentrations of biomarkers, the device provides accurate results.
The specialty of this technology is its low cost. A test strip that costs only a few cents and a reusable circuit board costs five dollars, making it an affordable option even for countries with limited resources.
This advance promises early and accessible detection of breast cancer, which could have a significant impact in the fight against the disease.
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