iPhone Adapter Accelerates Throat Cancer Test Results

An adapter designed to connect with an iPhone for throat cancer detection is currently being piloted by the NHS across the West Midlands. This device, developed by Endoscope-i Ltd, a medical technology firm based in Birmingham, has the potential to shorten patient waiting times for results, as stated by the NHS. During trials, the North Midlands University Hospitals NHS Trust reported that no cancers were overlooked when utilizing the kit, with patients receiving their results within 23 hours of their examination. Kyle Jones, 31, one of the individuals diagnosed at the Royal Stoke Hospital, remarked: “I’m scared to even think where I’d be or what could have happened without this device.” Typically, individuals suspected of having throat cancer undergo an endoscopy in a hospital, which involves inserting a camera through the mouth or nose. The endoscope-i adapter, which attaches to an iPhone, incorporates a 32mm lens endoscope eyepiece. This feature allows nurses to capture live images and transmit them to specialists, enabling patient results to be provided within hours. According to NHS England, approximately 250,000 urgent referrals for suspected head and neck cancer are made annually. Of these, 5% are diagnosed with cancer. Dr. Cally Palmer, the national cancer director, noted that the wait for results can be an extremely worrying time and that accelerating the process can make a huge difference for people and their families. Mr. Jones, who was admitted for tests after experiencing hoarseness following a musical performance, stated: “With how fast that my cancer developed after the first appointment to the stage where I needed a big laryngectomy surgery it makes me so grateful that it was picked up and in time and I believe that has saved my life.” Another patient, Janet Hennessy, 76, from Stoke-on-Trent, also underwent testing with the device and found the swift examination reassuring. She commented: “Even if you think there’s nothing there, you’re still thinking about it and it worries you and your family.” For updates from BBC Stoke & Staffordshire, follow their channels on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for content on external websites. Information regarding the BBC’s external linking policy is available.