Researchers at the University of Florida, in collaboration with National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, have announced a new breakthrough in breast cancer detection. The method, published in the ‘Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology‘, introduces 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.
Breast cancer is one of the most common diseases in women worldwide, with over 35,000 new cases diagnosed each year in Spain alone, according to the ‘Cancer Figures, 2024’ study by the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM). While mammography is the main tool for its detection, this new method offers a revolutionary and accessible alternative.
The device works using paper test strips treated with specific antibodies that interact with cancer biomarkers. Once the saliva sample is placed on the strip, electrical pulses are applied to measure the presence of the biomarkers, providing accurate results even with extremely low concentrations.
The highlight of this technology is its low cost. With a test strip that costs just a few cents and a reusable circuit board valued at five dollars, it becomes 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 this disease. This new method has the potential to significantly improve early detection of breast cancer and ultimately save lives.