Tiny computer chip may help detect breast and other cancers

Fight Breast Cancer.

Scottsdale – Canadian researchers have developed a tiny computer that may allow doctors to check a woman’s breast cancer risk.  The investigators said the pocket sized device can use just droplets of blood or breast tissue to measure the levels of estrogen. These are far smaller samples than used with conventional methods which can quickly screen breast cancer risk (World News). The diagnosis can be made via less invasive methods and the manufacture of the device is less costly than other diagnostic methods. The chip is also being studied to diagnose other types of cancers.

The University of Toronto investigators said, “the new device is compatible with extremely small samples – around 1,ooo times smaller than the amount needed for conventional analysis”. Dr. Mousa of the University of Toronto, who also worked on the study said the device can also be used to check on the effectiveness of breast cancer drugs (Reuters).

While the device is experimental, it is estimated that the technology will be available within the next 5 years. Such a device could be come a “pocket” diagnostic tool that can be transported and utilized with greater ease. It is exciting to see the future development of such technology that can reduce and simplify the diagnosis of complicated medical conditions (model used in illustration).