2023-07-30 11:00:00
When breast cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, the survival rate is almost 100%. However, for tumors detected at later stages, it drops to around 25%. To improve patients’ chances of survival, researchers at MIT have designed a portable ultrasound device that can detect breast tumors early.
The screening device is presented in detail in the review Sciences Advances of July 28, 2023.
Breast cancer: a device that allows screening at home
This ultrasound scanner, which looks like a flexible patch, can be easily attached to a bra. It allows the wearer to easily move the ultrasound probe over the breast and obtain images of the breast tissue from different angles.
“We have changed the form of ultrasound technology so that it can be used in your home. It is portable and easy to use, and provides user-friendly, real-time monitoring of breast tissue.”says Canan Dagdeviren, an associate professor at MIT’s Media Lab and lead author of the study, in a communiqué.
The tests carried out showed that the device offered echographic images with a resolution comparable to that of the ultrasound probes used in medical imaging centers. For example, researchers were able to detect cysts as small as 0.3 cm in diameter – which matches the size of early-stage tumors – in a 71-year-old woman. They also demonstrated that tissue might be scanned to a depth of up to 8 centimeters.
Breast cancer screening: a personal story behind the new ultrasound scanner
The idea for this device was prompted by a tragic personal experience of Professor Canan Dagdeviren. While at the bedside of his aunt Fatma Caliskanoglu, who was diagnosed with advanced breast cancer at age 49 despite regular screenings, he realized the need to develop a way to detect breast cancer earlier. breast tumors. His aunt sadly passed away six months later, strengthening his resolve to improve the chances of survival for interval cancer patients like his aunt.
These are breast tumors that develop between regular mammograms. They represent 20 to 30% of breast cancer cases. Additionally, they tend to be more aggressive than those found during routine examinations.
“My goal is to target people most likely to develop interval cancer”explains Professor Dagdeviren. “With more frequent screening, our goal is to increase the survival rate to 98%”he assures.
Portable ultrasound: towards a miniaturized version of the device
In order to make the device even more practical and accessible, researchers are currently working on the development of a miniaturized version of the imaging system. They would like to make it the size of a smartphone. This development would allow users to use the device more easily.
“Access to affordable and quality health care is essential for early detection and diagnosis. As a nurse, I have witnessed the negative consequences of late diagnosis. This technology promises to break down the many barriers to early detection of breast cancer by providing more reliable, comfortable and less intimidating diagnosis.”explains Catherine Ricciardi, nurse director of the Center for Clinical and Translational Research at MIT who also worked on the project.
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