In a remarkable blend of necessity and inspiration, a young innovator has created a groundbreaking bra designed to detect early signs of breast cancer. Seventeen-year-old Mateo García, from Mexico, recently earned the prestigious award at the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards for his invention, dubbed EVA. This smart bra is aimed at revolutionizing breast cancer detection.
Mateo was motivated to develop this life-saving tool after his mother faced a harrowing battle with breast cancer. “At 13, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time,” Mateo shared in a promotional video for his invention. “In less than six months, a tumor grew from the size of a grain of rice to that of a golf ball. Unfortunately, the diagnosis came too late, resulting in her losing both breasts and nearly her life.”
Confronted with such a devastating reality, Mateo’s determination gave rise to a vital solution: a bra that can detect cancerous changes early. At just 17, he and his peers founded Higia, a company dedicated to developing this innovative garment. The EVA bra features 200 biosensors that assess the breast’s surface, monitoring factors like temperature, texture, and color. It is particularly tailored for women with a genetic predisposition to breast cancer, allowing users to track their health through a mobile or desktop app.
“The data we collect is crucial,” Mateo explained in an interview with a local media outlet. “In the presence of a tumor, increased blood flow leads to higher temperatures and altered textures. Our sensors can detect these changes and issue alerts. If persistent changes are noted, we will advise users to consult a doctor.”
Statistics highlight the urgent need for such innovations. Approximately 1.7 million women are diagnosed with breast cancer annually worldwide, with an estimated 41,070 fatalities occurring in the U.S. this year alone. Early detection can significantly impact survival rates, underscoring the importance of Mateo’s invention.
Why Choose a Bra for Detection?
Mateo emphasized its practicality: “It keeps the breasts in a stable position and only requires wearing for about an hour each week.”
While the EVA bra is still in prototype phase, Mateo estimates it will take an additional two years to secure certification for commercial use. The name of his company, Higia, pays homage to Hygiea, the ancient Greek goddess of health, perfectly aligning with the mission to provide life-saving support to women.
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In summary, Mateo García’s creation of the EVA bra represents a significant advancement in breast cancer detection, born from personal tragedy and a passionate desire to help others. As the prototype develops, it holds promise for changing how women monitor their breast health.