Breast cancer is the most common invasive cancer in women worldwide, and it is one of the most common causes of cancer death in women. It is estimated that 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer during her life. Early detection and diagnosis are the keys to survive this fatal disease, for reducing significantly the mortality.
The Breast Self Examination is the first method to detect early breast cancer, it is safe, self and simple. Although safe, this practice is not commonly carried by women because they are not confident in their own ability to detect a lump. For this problem, we have created Palpreast: a wearable device for breast self-examination.
Palpreast is a wearable stretchy top with a pressure sensing textile that is adapted to breast with an inflation system. This system applies an external pressure to simulate hand movement that detects the presence of nodules, which are stiffer than the breast tissue. The device can be used by all women, including pregnant ones, because it's safe, easy and does not use any radiation. Women, with high familiar or genetic onset, are the first target patient population, which have to undergo to several breast diagnostic exams.