In the realm of invention, necessity often sparks creativity. This was certainly the case for 18-year-old Diego Martínez, a student from Mexico who recently secured the top honor at the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) for his groundbreaking design: EVA, a smart bra aimed at early breast cancer detection.
Diego was inspired to create this life-saving garment after a harrowing experience with his mother, who faced her second battle with breast cancer when he was just 13 years old. “The tumor grew from the size of a grain of rice to that of a golf ball in less than six months,” he explained in a promotional video for his invention. Tragically, the diagnosis came too late, resulting in his mother undergoing a double mastectomy and facing life-threatening circumstances.
Motivated by the desire to prevent other families from experiencing similar pain, Diego, along with a group of friends, founded Higia when he was just 17. They embarked on an ambitious mission to design a smart bra capable of detecting early signs of breast cancer.
The Revolutionary EVA Bra
The revolutionary EVA bra is equipped with 200 biosensors that analyze the breast’s surface, monitoring its texture, color, and temperature. This technology is especially beneficial for women with a genetic predisposition to breast cancer. Users can easily access their health data through a mobile or desktop application.
Diego explained, “We collect and store all the data. When a tumor is present, there’s increased blood flow and heat, causing noticeable changes in temperature and texture.” If the sensors detect significant alterations, the system alerts the user, advising them to consult a doctor if the changes persist.
A video on the Higia website highlights the alarming statistics surrounding breast cancer, noting that 1.7 million women receive a breast cancer diagnosis each year worldwide. In the U.S. alone, approximately 41,070 women are projected to lose their lives to this disease this year. The statistics underscore the critical need for effective early detection methods.
Why a Bra?
Why a bra, you may wonder? Diego noted, “It keeps the breasts in place and only needs to be worn for one hour each week.”
While the prototype shows great promise, it is still undergoing development, and Diego estimates it will take two years before the bra is ready for certification. Interestingly, the company name, Higia, is derived from the Greek goddess Hygiea, symbolizing health and healing—a fitting tribute for a company dedicated to creating life-saving technology for women.
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In summary, Diego Martínez’s innovative EVA bra represents a significant advancement in the fight against breast cancer, inspired by personal experience and driven by the need for early detection. As he continues to develop this life-changing product, the hope is that it will save countless lives in the future.