A research team at ETH Zurich, Switzerland’s prestigious Federal Institute of Technology, has developed a groundbreaking wearable device called MenstruAI, designed specifically for women’s health monitoring. This device analyzes biomarkers found in menstrual blood, providing a simple, non-invasive way to detect inflammation, gynecological cancers, and endometriosis early, marking a significant advancement in female health technology.
MenstruAI attaches directly to a sanitary pad and uses built-in sensitive test strips to detect three key biomarkers simultaneously: C-reactive protein (CRP), an indicator of inflammation and infection in the body; EA, a protein associated with certain gynecological cancers; and CA-125, a biomarker commonly used to monitor endometriosis. The test strips feature a color-changing system where the intensity of the color correlates with the concentration of each biomarker. Users can read the results visually or upload photos of the test strips to a companion mobile app for detailed analysis and insights.
Dr. Lucas Dosnon, lead researcher on the project, explained, “Menstrual blood has long been considered waste, but we have demonstrated that it contains valuable health information.” He emphasized that MenstruAI is not intended to replace professional diagnostic tools but rather to serve as an early warning system, helping women identify potential health risks and decide when to seek further medical advice.
Health experts highlight that gynecological conditions like endometriosis and certain cancers are often difficult to detect early and involve lengthy, complex diagnoses. MenstruAI offers an accessible, everyday monitoring tool that could reduce misdiagnosis and delays in treatment by empowering women to track their health more proactively.
The device’s non-invasive nature and portability make it ideal for use at home, increasing the likelihood that women will engage in regular health monitoring. It provides guidance not only for those experiencing symptoms but also for preventive care and general health management.
MenstruAI exemplifies the powerful integration of biomedical engineering with digital health technology and paves the way for future development of similar portable diagnostic tools based on bodily fluids such as saliva or urine. As the technology advances and becomes more widely available, such devices have the potential to become essential components of women’s health care and public health strategies worldwide.
Currently, the MenstruAI team is collaborating with medical institutions and health technology companies to conduct large-scale clinical trials and prepare for global market introduction. They hope to bring this innovative health monitoring tool to millions of women around the world in the near future.
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