BiliScreen, the application that detects pancreatic cancer with a 3D printed box

The detection of cancer early on could mean life or death for many who are diagnosed with it around the world. While many countries have low rates of pancreatic cancer, a new application called the BiliScreen could be a new solution for early detection. Combing a 3D printed box with a smartphone app, the BiliScreen provides a new solution to detect warning signs of pancreatic cancer and other diseases.

The application measures your levels of bilirubin to help detect pancreatic cancer early on

Created by researchers at the University of Washington’s Ubiquitous Computing Lab, the Biliscreen uses the different computer and machine learning algorithms in order to detect jaundice through a photo of a person’s eye. Through a simple photo, the device is able to measure for higher levels of bilirubin within the white area of the eye, a build up that typically occurs when there is pancreatic cancer involved. Typically, doctors measure the bilirubin by conducting blood tests, which can mean multiple visits to a doctors office and more time for the detection.

The system is not just a mobile application as it also includes a 3D printed accessory: a box that controls the exposure of light to the eye. To use the device, the user simply takes a selfie of their face using their smartphone camera while wearing a pair of special glasses and a 3D printed box that blocks the light and allows the application to operate under optimal conditions.