Every year, over 8,000 individuals are diagnosed with breast cancer in Sweden. For many, the diagnosis comes too late.
Despite modern advancements, 1,400 women still die annually in our country, and 90,000 in Europe. Early detection saves lives, yet only eight out of ten women in Sweden attend mammography screenings when invited.
Research has progressed, particularly with AI-supported mammography screening. But why do we still see so many deaths? Survival rates are 90-100% if cancer is detected early. Still, there are barriers such as low educational levels and low income, which affect participation in screening programs.
With the vision to make breast cancer screening accessible and democratized, we founded Thermaiscan. By combining our AI with thermal camera technology in smartphones, we have developed Breast Cancer Pre-Screening (BCPS). A triaging tool for primary care that complements traditional methods like mammography and ultrasound. Our technology analyzes breast health based on metabolism through thermal camera images and identifies potential tumor development. In our clinical validation in Armenia, BCPS has shown 89% sensitivity and 83% specificity compared to mammography.
The development of thermal cameras is advancing rapidly. In a few years, major smartphone manufacturers are expected to integrate thermal camera sensors, which, together with AI, could revolutionize breast cancer screening. In Sweden, we have good infrastructure, but there is still room for improvement. BCPS can support screening in rural areas, help risk groups, and those who avoid mammography. Globally, many areas lack infrastructure for screenings.
Our current focus is raising capital for clinical trials in India, and then using the tool in healthcare centers across more than 20 states before expanding further. We hope to soon integrate our technology into the Swedish healthcare system and contribute to saving more lives.
To truly make a difference, it is essential for more women to participate in screening programs. With the right efforts, we can save more lives and give more women the chance for a future free from breast cancer.
Statistics: Socialstyrelsen, Bröstcancerförbundet, Europaparlamentet, Cancerfonden
- Svensk Cancervård Magazine: https://issuu.com/mediaplanetse/docs/svenskcancervard_2024?fr=xKAE9_zU1NQ
- Link to article in Swedish: https://www.kampenmotcancer.se/svensk-cancervard/brostcancerforskningen-gor-framsteg-med-hjalp-av-ai-men-racker-det/
