Scientists develop revolutionary self–examination device to detect breast cancer

BRASTER is the only company in the world that has developed a proven method for the manufacturing of liquid crystal matrices used for breast cancer detection. A team of Polish researchers has developed a medical thermographic testing device used for imaging and recording temperature distribution in the breasts. The temperature anomalies may be a sign of a developing malignant tumor. With this effective, non-invasive tool, women can screen their breasts in the comfort of their own home. The company’s key technologies are protected internationally by patents in 45 countries, all European Union member states, as well as Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, India, Russia and the United States.

According to the American Cancer Society, a case of breast cancer is diagnosed every 19 seconds. It is the most common type of cancer in women. Even women who have no family history of breast cancer or a genetic predisposition should perform regular screenings. With BRASTER, the examination is completely painless and non-invasive. The whole procedure is very easy to perform and takes only about 15 minutes. Screenings should be done monthly, in addition to regular mammography and ultrasound examinations performed by a professional.

To simplify the self-examination process, BRASTER created a mobile application that guides users through the screening steps and allows them to view their results, which are based on automatic, algorithm-generated interpretations of thermographic images. If users have any doubts, qualified experts are available to answer questions and provide advice.

BRASTER S.A. has received a number of awards, such as the Golden Laurel of Innovation from the Polish Federation of Engineering Associations.

A group of researchers led by Henryk Jaremek, Ph.D., began to develop the device in 2007. They cooperated closely with engineers from the Military University of Technology and doctors from the Military Institute of Medicine in Poland. Once BRASTER was established as a company in 2008, clinical trials of the medical device began.

CEO Marcin Halicki, who is the cofounder and president of the Polish Association of Healthcare Employers within the Employers of Poland, joined BRASTER in 2014 and under his leadership and change in strategy, within just 2 years BRASTER developed a finished product: it is already on the market in Poland.

BRASTER’s researchers developed a solution called liquid-crystal contact thermography, in which they applied the liquid crystal compounds to picture thermal changes that occur in the body when tumors form. Since cancer cells show a higher metabolism rate than other cells, they form areas of increased temperature which can be recorded by the BRASTER device. The patented system then interprets the images.

BRASTER S.A. has received a number of awards, such as the Golden Laurel of Innovation from the Polish Federation of Engineering Associations, Market Leader of Innovation awarded by the Gazeta Prawna daily, and distinction in the competition “Polish Product of the Future” organized by the Polish Agency for Enterprise Development.