Women may soon be able to buy a smart bra that will detect
cancer at its earliest stage. The science of thermography in
detecting breast cancer is in a development stage.
The Smart Bra is the invention of Dr. Elias Siores, Ph.D.,
Director of the Centre for Research and Innovation at the
University of Bolton in the United Kingdom. The bra works by using
a microwave antennae system that's woven into the fabric and
detects abnormal temperature changes in breast tissue.
Slight temperature changes may be the result of increased blood
flow which in turn may signal the development of breast cancer
tumors. The science involves the supposition that as tumors grow,
there is a higher demand for blood flow. The increased blood flow
then produces elevated temperatures around the effected area of the
breast. This slight elevation in temperature sets off a warning to
the user to seek a medical consultation.
The innovation relies upon materials that are used in remote
sensing devices that rely on small deviations in temperature to
regulate the technology. These materials are exceptionally
sensitive to passive microwaves to detect possible development of
cancerous tumors.
The Smart Bra is worn in place of a regular undergarment.
An increase in blood flow may be a signal for other types of
medical conditions, but Siores is continuing his effort to increase
the sensitivity of the testing equipment to distinguish the unique
characteristics of very early cancerous tumor development.
(Agencies Via Xinhua News Agency)