In a groundbreaking development, scientists have introduced an innovative device that can be seamlessly integrated into menstrual pads, potentially serving as a crucial screening tool for diseases like ovarian cancer.

This lightweight gadget is designed to detect specific disease biomarkers—important proteins present in menstrual blood. Featuring a color-changing paper test strip, the device reveals its findings visually, transforming its hue upon contact with proteins linked to health issues.

Professor Inge Herrmann, who leads the Nanoparticle Systems Engineering Lab at ETH Zurich, shared with Live Science, "We envision this tool as a valuable resource for women at heightened cancer risk," emphasizing its potential to offer an economical monitoring solution.

The device, measuring roughly one square inch, is housed in soft silicone at the bottom of a menstrual pad. When exposed to the defined biomarkers, users can expect a visual indication within about 15 minutes, allowing for both an immediate visual clue and deeper analysis via a dedicated app.

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