Invention:
This invention is a non-invasive, inexpensive, comfortable and portable diagnostic test to screen for breast cancer. Designed for early detection particularly among minority populations and as a preliminary screening tool before mammography or MRI assessment. Bioelectrical impedance analysis is a simple, quick, and non-invasive technique for measuring breast density and composition. Using bioelectrical impedance analysis as a diagnostic tool for breast cancer screening through examination of the electrical characteristics of breast tissue provides information on a continuous basis to patients in the field without the need for radiological investigations. Measurement of fat and water mass through established algorithms help assess the standard density and composition of breast tissue and identify lesions and abnormalities indicative of breast cancer.
Background:
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the U.S. and makes up 15% of all new cancer diagnoses. In 2016, 3.5 million women in the U.S. were living with a history of breast cancer. Approximately 1 in 8 women (12%) will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime. In particular, Hispanic and African American women are known to have a higher a prevalence of breast cancer at younger ages.
The United States Preventative Services Task Force recommends that women who are 50 to 74 years old and are at average risk for breast cancer be screened every two years. Breast cancer screening methods include: physical exams, mammograms, breast ultrasounds, breast magnetic resonance imaging, and biopsy. Mammograms entail exposure to radiation, patient discomfort, expensive equipment, and visiting a medical facility. A bioelectrical impedance diagnostic test, however, would be portable, non-invasive, inexpensive, and eliminate exposure to radiation. The device could particularly benefit underserved, at-risk populations through field screenings in rural settings.
Applications:
- Breast cancer screening
- Detection of lymphedema in breast cancer survivors
- Potential application for general health diagnostics
Advantages:
- No radiation exposure or toxicity
- Facilitates breast cancer screening of at-risk populations
- Non-invasive
- Portable
- Inexpensive
