Smart Bra

High-tech “wonder bra” monitors the temperature to detect the presence of malignant cells in breasts.

11:42 14 March 2016

A high-tech bra has been developed by a group of Colombian scientists with the goal to help the wearer detect the presence of breast cancer.

 

The wonder bra, which was designed by the Electronic Engineering Department of the National University of Colombia in the city of Manizales, detects the difference in temperature between both breasts, which is usually affected by the presence of malignant cells.

 

With this product, the researchers aim to help patients get an early diagnosis, which is crucial in improving prognosis, as breast cancer becomes more and more difficult to treat the later it is detected.

 

One of the researchers, Maria Camila Cortes Arcila, said: "When invasive cells are present in the mammary glands, the body begins to circulate more blood in the affected area, which is why the temperature rises."

 

The group, which has trialed the bra in 189 women, are currently developing the bra for commercialisation and aims to make it affordable for all women.