A novel "smart bra" integrating thermal sensors and artificial intelligence is showing promise as a non-invasive method for the early detection of breast cancer.
The PHI-BRA system, developed by a French-Swiss research team, is designed to be worn for 30 minutes. It utilizes skin surface thermography to track changes in breast tissue temperature, as an elevated temperature can indicate increased blood flow associated with developing tumors. The device also incorporates surface electrodes for electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), a technique that measures cell structure frequency, recognizing that breast tumors often have distinct structural properties.
This combined approach allows the bra to measure both metabolic activity through the skin surface and the structural characteristics of the tissue. The data collected is then analyzed by AI algorithms to detect suspicious heat patterns and potential anomalies.
Breast cancer affects a significant portion of the population, accounting for approximately 30% of all new female cancer diagnoses annually, with over 320,000 people expected to be diagnosed this year. While mammograms are the established screening method, recommended annually for women starting at age 40, earlier detection is crucial, particularly for high-risk individuals. The PHI-BRA aims to serve as a complementary screening tool, offering a more accessible option for monitoring between regular medical appointments.
The development comes amid concerns about rising rates of life-threatening breast cancer among younger women. Between 2004 and 2021, metastatic breast cancer—where cancer has spread to other parts of the body—increased by 3% among women aged 20 to 39.
This smart bra is not the first attempt at wearable cancer detection technology. Researchers at MIT previously developed a device that attaches to a bra and uses ultrasound technology to image breast tissue. That technology was capable of detecting cysts as small as 0.3 centimeters, representing tumors at an early stage. The MIT team plans to use AI to analyze these ultrasound images for diagnostic recommendations, anticipating a potential consumer release in three to four years.
Clinical trials for the PHI-BRA smart bra are ongoing, with the research team working to expand their studies and scale up the technology for wider application.