Ultrasound-Based Technique: A Revolutionary Approach to Cancer Detection

Ultrasound-Based Technique: A Revolutionary Approach to Cancer Detection

Sub: Sci

Sec: Health

Why in News

Scientists are pioneering a novel ultrasound-based method to detect cancers, which could potentially replace invasive biopsy procedures. This groundbreaking technique, which was recently presented at the joint meeting of the Acoustical Society of America and the Canadian Acoustical Association, holds immense promise for transforming cancer diagnostics.

Ultrasound-Based Cancer Detection

A new, non-invasive method has been developed using high-frequency ultrasound to detect cancerous tissues. This technology enables scientists to release tiny droplets containing RNA, DNA, and proteins into the bloodstream, allowing them to identify specific cancer biomarkers.

How it Works:

High-energy ultrasound waves break off small pieces of tissue from suspected cancerous areas.

The tissue fragments release genetic material and proteins (biomarkers) into the blood, which can be tested for cancer detection.

Ultrasound increases the concentration of these biomarkers in the bloodstream by over 100 times, improving the chances of identifying cancer at an early stage.

Photoacoustic Imaging:New technology allows for real-time imaging of cancerous tissues using laser pulses that create sound waves, improving visualization of tumour-associated blood vessels​. The new systems capture images 100 to 1,000 times faster than previous technologies, enhancing clinical applicability​

Wearable Ultrasound Devices:Researchers have developed a miniaturized ultrasound scanner that can be worn, enabling women to conduct breast imaging at home​. This device can detect tumours as small as 0.3 cm, potentially increasing early detection rates for interval cancers​

Benefits of Ultrasound Technology:Ultrasound is non-invasive and radiation-free, providing detailed soft tissue images, which is crucial for detecting breast and prostate cancers.​The technology enhances surgical precision by differentiating between cancerous and healthy tissues during operations​

Future Prospects:The U.S. National Cancer Institute has launched a new initiative, the ‘Cancer Screening Research Network,’ which aims to explore innovative cancer detection techniques. The network is expected to begin large-scale clinical trials with 24,000 participants in 2025, and this ultrasound-based method could be part of future trials.

About Cancer:Cancer is a disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells within the body. It can arise in various tissues and organs, leading to the formation of tumours.

Cancer begins with genetic mutations that alter the normal behaviour of cells. These mutations can result in the proliferation of cancerous cells, forming clusters known as tumours.

The cancerous cells may detach from these tumours and spread through the lymphatic system or bloodstream, leading to metastasis in other body regions.

Approximately 63% of all deaths in India are attributed to NCDs, with cancer being a significant contributor.

By 2030, the economic burden of cancer-related illnesses is projected to reach approximately $3.55 trillion in lost output.