Oman leads health tech with breakthrough in breast cancer detection

Innovative cooling gel enhances thermal imaging, positioning Oman among top nations in cancer research

MUSCAT, Oman (MNTV) – Scientists in Oman have introduced a groundbreaking innovation that could significantly improve early breast cancer detection. 

By enhancing thermal imaging techniques with a specially formulated cooling gel, the discovery offers a more accurate, non-invasive method for identifying even the smallest and deepest tumors. 

Experts say this advancement could revolutionize cancer screening and position Oman at the forefront of medical research.

The study focused on analyzing temperature variations in breast tissue, influenced by factors such as tumor size, depth, and blood flow, reported Oman Observer. 

The study was led by Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Salim al Husaini, Assistant Professor at Arab Open University in Oman, in collaboration with researchers from King Khalid University in Saudi Arabia and the International Islamic University of Malaysia. 

Using advanced numerical simulation modeling, the team discovered that smaller or deeper tumors—especially those less than 0.5 cm or embedded deep within tissue—often go undetected through conventional thermography due to minimal temperature differences, which typically range from just 0.27°C to 2.58°C.

However, their study demonstrated that applying a cooling gel significantly enhances thermal contrast, making it easier to identify tumors that would otherwise remain hidden. 

In a simulation, a tumor located 10 cm deep was detected with a remarkable 6°C temperature difference after the gel was applied—an improvement not achievable through standard thermal imaging alone.

“This breakthrough has the potential to greatly improve the accuracy of early breast cancer detection,” Dr. Husaini stated. 

“By enhancing thermal contrast with cooling techniques, we can identify tumors that might otherwise remain undetected, particularly in patients with larger breasts or deeply embedded tumors,” he added.

While the results are highly promising, Dr. Husaini emphasized the need for further clinical studies to validate the findings. 

He also highlighted the potential for integrating situ-cooling techniques into existing thermography-based detection methods, offering a non-invasive and more effective approach to early cancer diagnosis. 

This innovative research marks a significant step in Oman’s contributions to global health science, paving the way for more advanced and accessible cancer screening technologies.