Affordable mobile technology for cervical cancer prevention
Low-cost mobile colposcopy and confocal imaging for global prevention of cervical cancer
This study is working on a new, affordable mobile device that uses smartphone technology to help women get quick and accurate cervical cancer screenings and treatments all in one visit, especially in places where healthcare is limited.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rice University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10849789 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a low-cost mobile colposcope that combines advanced imaging techniques to improve cervical cancer screening and treatment in low-resource settings. By enabling a single-visit approach for screening, diagnosis, and treatment, the project aims to reduce the high rates of loss to follow-up seen in traditional multi-visit programs. The device will utilize smartphone technology to provide accurate and efficient diagnostics, making it accessible for use in low-and middle-income countries as well as underserved areas in the U.S.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women in low-and middle-income countries or medically underserved areas who are at risk for cervical cancer.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for cervical cancer or those living in high-resource settings with established screening programs may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce cervical cancer incidence and mortality in underserved populations by providing effective screening and treatment options.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with mobile health technologies in improving access to healthcare, making this approach promising yet innovative in the context of cervical cancer prevention.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Rice University — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Richards-Kortum, Rebecca R. — Rice University
- Study coordinator: Richards-Kortum, Rebecca R.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.