Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Thesis Format

Integrated Article

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy

Program

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Supervisor

Abbas Samani

Abstract

Breast cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer globally, accounting for 12.5% of all new cases annually. Research has found a significant correlation between breast bilateral asymmetry and an increased risk of cancer, with women diagnosed with breast cancer having higher levels of bilateral asymmetrical breast volume. Unfortunately, 87% of women with breast asymmetry lack adequate tools for assessing their cancer risk. Early screening using bilateral asymmetry to predict a woman's long-term risk of breast cancer can help physicians make informed decisions about whether to recommend sequential imaging and the frequency of screening. Another important factor in understanding the cause of breast cancer is the association between long-term abnormal mechanical stress distribution in breast tissue and the increased risk of developing breast lesions. Chronic stress promotes cancer development through various molecular mechanisms. However, existing off-the-shelf symmetric bras do not adequately address breast asymmetry, as they may not provide sufficient support for smaller breasts while inducing high stress levels to larger breasts. Therefore, it is essential to explore the relationship between concentrated stress from ill-fitted bras and its potential contribution to breast cancer development. A more personalized and tailored bra fitting technique could significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer associated with mechanical stress. In this study, we developed an unsupervised machine learning algorithm to classify breast bilateral asymmetry using bilateral magnetic resonance imaging. A clear link between breast asymmetry and breast cancer risk has been established, providing a predictive tool for proactive breast health assessment. We then developed two complementary computational inversion techniques to determine the individual-specific hyperelastic parameters of breast tissue, along with the breast's undeformed shape, using MRI images. This synergistic algorithm addresses issues with preloading-induced errors, thereby providing a more precise foundation for designing customized bras. The development of customized bras for cancer-prone women with significant breast asymmetry is facilitated by the optimization of breast tissue stress distribution. This is achieved through the accurate capture of breast shape and tissue properties. By integrating these details with various textile options for bra modeling, our study supports the natural state of the breast and reduces potentially harmful stress concentrations. Our research contributes significantly to the understanding of breast cancer risk factors and offers potential for innovative approaches in preventive breast healthcare. This study is a crucial step forward in the field and demonstrates the potential for improved outcomes in breast health.

Summary for Lay Audience

Breast cancer affects millions of women worldwide, making it a major health threat. Scientists are uncovering surprising factors that impact risk of breast cancer development, including those that many women are unaware of. In recent years, scientists have investigated various factors that may contribute to this disease. One significant factor is breast tissue density, a condition in which there is more fibrous tissue than fatty tissue in the breasts. This increased density is associated with a higher risk of breast cancer, especially in premenopausal women, making them up to six times more likely to develop the disease.

Another interesting aspect of this research focuses on the concept of breast bilateral asymmetry, where one breast has a different size, shape or tissue distribution than the other. Surprisingly, this condition is quite common, affecting approximately 87% of the women. However, most bras available in stores are designed for symmetrical breasts, which means that they do not fit well for women with this asymmetry. This poor fit can lead to uneven pressure and stress on the breast. Studies have suggested that this uneven stress might contribute to an increased risk of developing breast cancer.

To explore this further, this research delves into the relationship between breast asymmetry and breast cancer risk. It looks at detailed breast MRI scans from a long-term study to understand whether and how different breast sizes, shape and composition can affect the likelihood of developing cancer, leading to a classification tool for determining the risk of breast cancer using the woman’s breast MRI. This research also proposes an innovative approach – designing custom-made bras that cater to the unique needs of women with breast asymmetry. The goal is to provide better support and reduce the uneven stress caused by standard bras. By doing so, it is hoped that this could be a step towards reducing the breast cancer risk in these women.

In essence, this study aimed at understanding the nuances of breast health and how factors such as tissue density and breast asymmetry can influence cancer risk. It also seeks to provide practical solutions, such as custom-made bras, which could not only improve comfort, but also potentially play a role in preventing breast cancer. By combining medical research with everyday products, this study aimed at making a meaningful impact on women's health and well-being.

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