Various developed countries are competing to advance healthcare technology. Japan, for example, through the company Hitachi, is preparing to conduct trials for cancer detection using urine samples. This experiment, touted as the first of its kind in the world, aims to aid early detection of this deadly disease.
Two years ago, Hitachi’s information technology engineers and technicians developed a foundational technology to detect breast and colon cancers using urine samples, AFP reported.
Hitachi will begin testing the method using 250 urine samples to determine whether the samples can still be analyzed at room temperature, said Hitachi spokesperson Chiharu Odaira to AFP.
“If this method is implemented, it will make it easier for people to undergo cancer testing because they won’t need to visit a medical facility for a blood test,” Odaira said.
The technology works by detecting substances in urine that act as biological markers (biomarkers). Biomarkers are naturally occurring substances that indicate specific diseases, according to Hitachi.
The urine test is also intended to detect various types of cancer in children. Its use will benefit pediatric patients, who are often afraid of needles, Odaira added.
The trial will begin this month, from April to September, in collaboration with Nagoya University. Hitachi aims to implement this technology by 2020; however, this will depend on various factors, including approvals from medical authorities, Odaira said.
(Source: sin/vi.com)
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