Spot-it-Early is developing a technique for early detection of multi-types of cancer simultaneously, using algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies with the olfactory abilities of dogs.
The Background
According to the WHO, cancer is a leading cause of death globally, resulting in nearly 10 million deaths in a year. The global cancer screenings and diagnostics market is expected to grow at a rate of 6.9% per year, with factors contributing to its growth including, on the one hand, the increasing prevalence of various cancers, and the emergence of significant technological advancements that produce better imaging, enable more precise identification and improve the efficiency of testing results, on the other. Additionally, government and private organization initiatives to increase awareness for early diagnosis and prevention are expected to propel this market over the next few years.
Early diagnosis can help spot cancer in its initial stages when treatment is most likely to work. But although the need for cancer screening is massive, to date only 54% of cancers are diagnosed on time. Unfortunately, leading barriers that prevent individuals from receiving necessary screenings include a lack of awareness, time, high cost, no available solution, inadequate access and a fear of the outcome of the screening. In addition, most of the tests detect only one type of cancer.
A Menomadin Foundation Impact Investment: SpotitEarly develops a system for early detection of multi-types of cancer simultaneously, using algorithms and AI technologies with the olfactory abilities of dogs.
Photo by: SpotitEarly
The Challenge
In addition to their value in helping navigate the blind, detect low blood sugar levels in diabetics, and assist people suffering from mental distress, it seems that our canine friends can smell the presence of multi-types of cancer with remarkable accuracy. But although this capability has been documented in dozens of studies, no project has yet succeeded in making this capability accessible to a broad population effectively. The fact that the technology is “embedded” in the dog poses a difficult challenge, since external factors may affect the dog and impair its accuracy.
The Opportunity
Israeli startup company Spot-it-Early (SIE) has developed a system for early detection of several cancers simultaneously. The system is based on many scientific studies carried out in recent decades that prove that the air emitted during exhalation contains volatile organic molecules, representing diverse biomarkers from all body systems, including cancers of various types.
The company’s unique solution marries algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies with the olfactory abilities of dogs. Through a diverse management team, including R&D personnel alongside scientists, zoologists and dog trainers, the company has been able to develop a unique and detailed methodology at scale, which eliminates many of the inaccuracies traditionally arising from working with dogs, including an artificial intelligence technology to verify results.
The company is developing an off-the-shelf product that includes an accurate, non-invasive, easy and affordable home test performed through breath sampling. The results can be obtained within a few days. Clinical trials conducted in two leading hospitals in Israel already show 93% accuracy in detecting breast, lung, colon and prostate cancer in a single test.
Additional Reading:
Magazine Feature: “To take initiative— that’s the lesson we learned from October 7th. If you don’t act, you get hit.”
