Singpaore, Apr 15, 2009: Researchers at National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), Taiwan is said to have developed the world's first pocket-sized breast cancer detector for household use.

According to the University, the device, whose size is similar to an iPhone, was invented using near-infrared technology and is intended for the early detection and warning of breast cancer. The invention is said to be based on previous achievements by US biophysicist Mr Britton Chance, who is now a professor in NCKU's Institute of Innovations and Advanced Studies.

“Experiments on human beings may start later this year to pave the way for mass production next year. NCKU has focused its research on streamlining the size of the device since taking over the research project two years ago. Releasing near infrared lights of five to seven different wavelengths to detect potential cancer cells, the device performs non-invasive screening on users, who are not even required to take off their clothes or underwear,” said Mr Tzeng Yonhua, Vice President (R&D), NCKU.

Equipped with a liquid crystal display panel and a personal storage disc, the device is said to enable users to store the outcome of the screening and show it to their doctors for further diagnosis if abnormalities are detected.

“The device is especially helpful to women who are too embarrassed to receive screening in hospitals. The device is expected to be sold at price of around $280 per unit, making it affordable for most households,” said Mr Yonhua.

He said the technology can also be used to measure brain oxygen levels and blood glucose levels as well as detect pancreatic cancer. Taiwanese manufacturers are said to have expressed an interest in helping NCKU convert the device's prototype into viable samples, which will be sent to hospitals and medical schools in other countries for testing.