Dr. Gayatri Gogoi, Associate Professor at Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH), has received a design patent for her innovative self-breast examination (SBE) demonstration model. The patent has been granted by the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks under Design No. 395195-001.
A Step Towards Early Detection
Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women in India. Despite being an external organ, late detection is frequent due to low awareness and limited screening facilities. Dr. Gogoi designed this model to simplify awareness campaigns and to encourage timely detection of abnormalities.
The Assam Medical College researcher believes that the low-cost model will help women in both urban and rural areas understand the process of self-examination.
Unique Features of the Model
The patented model stands out for its simplicity and accessibility. It is:
- Safe and eco-friendly
- Lightweight and portable
- Made from everyday materials
- Culturally acceptable for community use
These qualities make it ideal for use by ASHAs (Accredited Social Health Activists) and ANMs (Auxiliary Nurse Midwives).
Training and Implementation
The first phase of the project will focus on training frontline health workers. Once trained, they can demonstrate the model during community health programs. This approach will replace traditional awareness methods that rely only on charts and paper diagrams.
By offering a hands-on demonstration, health workers can help women learn self-breast examination techniques correctly and with confidence.
Potential Impact in Public Health
Dr. Gogoi envisions her innovation as a game changer for primary healthcare. She believes that widespread adoption of the model could significantly improve early detection rates and reduce breast cancer-related deaths in India.
The initiative also highlights the growing role of ICMR Regional Centres in supporting grassroots medical innovations that directly impact communities.
Broader Context
Globally, the effectiveness of structured self-breast examination has been debated. While some health agencies caution against routine self-checks due to false positives, many experts promote breast awareness. The concept encourages women to remain alert to changes in their breasts and to seek medical advice when necessary.
By combining awareness with a simple teaching tool, Dr. Gogoi’s model addresses a major gap in health education.