Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. According to the US National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health, there were almost 20 million new cases and 9.7 million cancer-related deaths worldwide in 2022. Alarmingly, by 2040 the number of new cancer cases per year is expected to rise to 29.9 million and the number of cancer-related deaths to 15.3 million.
While advances in treatment have improved outcomes for many, the reality is clear: spotting cancer early can make the difference between life and death. 2019 cancer survival data from the UK, for example, clearly emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis. Whilst NHS England’s early diagnosis strategy aims to “diagnose 75% of cancer at an early stage by 2028 which will help save tens of thousands of lives for longer.”
Early detection not only improves survival rates but also reduces the financial and emotional burden on patients, families and healthcare systems. SpotitEarly aims to transform current cancer detection processes by combining cutting-edge technology with the power of canine sense of smell.
This revolutionary approach is focused on innovation and accessibility. Through it we aim to make early detection a routine part of healthcare — and ultimately to save countless lives.
The impact of early detection
When cancer is detected early, patients’ survival rates increase dramatically. For instance, five-year cancer-specific survival rates are nearly 90% when the disease is localized, compared to just 21% for cancers diagnosed at advanced stages. Early detection also allows for less aggressive and more targeted treatment, which significantly improves patients’ quality of life.
Dr. Len Lichtenfeld, SpotitEarly’s Chief Medical Officer, underscores the importance of early detection: “It’s not just about finding cancer earlier; it’s about reducing the burden on patients, families and society. Early detection means simpler, less costly treatments and more quality years for patients.”
However, despite these benefits, current cancer screening adoption rates remain alarmingly low. In fact, only about 14% of cancers in the U.S. are diagnosed when patients attend recommended screenings. So how can SpotitEarly make a difference?
Innovation is key
SpotitEarly’s solution is built on a foundation of innovation and addresses the gaps in traditional cancer screening methods. Our non-invasive Breath Test leverages the incredible scent detecting abilities of trained dogs combined with the analytical power of AI. When used together, we’re able to detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in breath samples, providing highly accurate, early identification of multiple cancer types.
Other key benefits of our approach include:
- Unlike traditional methods, the Breath Test is simple, pain-free and accessible to all.
- Combining canine scent detection skills with AI helps ensure results are both accurate and reliable.
- By minimizing cost, we can make cancer screening accessible to everyone who needs it.
Improving accessibility
One of the biggest current challenges in cancer treatment is the disparity in access to screening. Many individuals, particularly in rural or underserved areas, still do not have access to traditional methods such as mammograms or colonoscopies. And even in well-resourced areas, fear, stigma, and logistical challenges often deter individuals from seeking timely screenings.
SpotitEarly’s Breath Test breaks down these barriers by providing a convenient and user-friendly alternative that can be conducted at home or in a clinic. This radical accessibility not only improves adoption rates but helps ensure that more cancers are detected at their earliest stages, regardless of socioeconomic or geographic factors.
Dr. Lichtenfeld is clear on the benefits of using technology to bridge gaps in care: “The ease of use of SpotitEarly’s test — especially for underserved communities globally — is critical. Whether it’s rural areas with limited access or regions where traditional screening isn’t viable, this technology can bring hope where it’s needed most.”
Changes in cancer care
Our unique approach is also closely aligned with the ongoing transformation of healthcare. With ever-increasing pressure and reduced budgets in health systems, the future of healthcare hinges on a proactive approach, shifting from treatment to prevention.
Early cancer detection is a critical pillar in this transformation, offering a powerful weapon in the fight against this pervasive disease. SpotitEarly’s Breath Test is evidence of this shift, not only helping to reduce the financial burden on healthcare systems, but also improving patients’ treatment options and quality of life.
By seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology with the power of nature, we are redefining cancer care for generations. This is more than early detection; it’s a commitment to a healthier, more hopeful future for all.
Learn more about SpotitEarly by visiting SpotitEarly.com to discover how we’re transforming early cancer detection.
