Wearable device could detect breast cancer

A new imaging device could detect breast cancer tumors through skin contact with minimal discomfort. The device is based on a flexible and wearable antenna system developed by researchers at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis. Tests on model human body systems showed that the received signal from a tumor is three times as strong as the signal from healthy tissue and is well defined relative to background noise. The goal of the research is to develop a brassiere-like system that a patient can wear, which would use non-ionizing radiation to detect cancerous breast tissue. Research suggests that the device could provide earlier detection than other systems. However, the researchers say that the system should be used along with mammography, not as a replacement for it.