Edinburgh, Scotland – Sânziana Foia, a post-graduate student at Imperial College London, has developed a groundbreaking non-invasive test for detecting signs of cervical cancer. Inspired by her own uncomfortable experience with a traditional smear test, Foia set out to create a more user-friendly and accessible method of screening for the disease.
The result of her work is the Papcup, a small device that allows women to test themselves at home using a sample of menstrual blood. Unlike traditional smear tests, which can be invasive and uncomfortable, the Papcup offers a simple and efficient way to detect cancer-causing HPV strains without the need for a doctor’s appointment or waiting for results.
Foia’s innovation has the potential to revolutionize cervical cancer screening, providing women with a convenient and empowering alternative to the traditional methods. The device, equipped with a bio-sensor, is designed to provide rapid results in just 15 minutes, enabling early detection and intervention.
Supported by the Venture Builder Incubator program at the University of Edinburgh, Foia is now working towards refining the Papcup prototype and conducting clinical trials. The program aims to help researchers and academic staff translate their ideas into viable businesses and impactful products.
The importance of early cancer detection cannot be overstated, as emphasized by Cancer Research Horizons (CRH), a key partner in Foia’s project. By making screening more accessible and less intimidating, Foia hopes to encourage more women to prioritize their health and seek regular testing.
Beyond just improving the screening experience, the Papcup also addresses disparities in healthcare access and inequalities that often lead to women skipping their appointments. By offering a more comfortable and convenient screening option, Foia’s innovation has the potential to save lives and improve overall health outcomes.