RPH-Monitor

Para qué sirve

The device quantifies PSA test strips and uses an AI framework that compares results with qualitative health data from patient records. The system stores data in a companion app, allowing clinicians to monitor trends and respond to concerning results.

Qué te inspiró

My Grandad was diagnosed with prostate cancer back in 2015. He’s always been incredibly active, spending most days either out on his allotment or on the golf course. Thankfully, he’s made a full recovery, but the frequent follow-up appointments still disrupt his routine. The regular PSA tests are not only a source of stress, but they also mean a nearly an 1 hour drive to hospital and a missed game of golf. After one particularly frustrating visit, he just said... “Why isn’t there a better way?” Inspired by his experience, I started looking into why existing solutions fall short and set out to find a better way by addressing those gaps.

Cómo funciona

This device uses a colourimetric system to quantify lateral flow assay results. Users perform a finger-prick blood test and insert the strip into the device. Similar to COVID lateral flow tests, a coloured line appears if PSA is present. However, studies have shown that the intensity of the line’s colour correlates with the concentration of PSA in the blood. This device uses an RGB colour sensor to detect the precise colour composition of the line and translates that into an accurate PSA concentration. It also features an AI framework that compares chemical results with qualitative health data from patient records to improve interpretation and enable a level of diagnostic insight that was only available through in-person testing. The system stores data in a companion app, allowing clinicians to monitor trends and respond to concerning results. This reduces the need for frequent hospital visits and eases pressure on healthcare services.

Proceso de diseño

At the start of this project, my goal was to design a remote PSA testing system that could be reused every six weeks to monitor health trends. However, as I explored existing solutions, I discovered key limitations- particularly the lack of integration with qualitative factors- that made them unsuitable as true alternatives to in-person appointments. This led me to redefine my scope and take a deeper look at the broader challenges of at-home testing. From there, I began conceptualising and rapidly prototyping device designs. I collaborated with a small focus group of potential primary users to evaluate ergonomics, user needs, and human factors, ensuring the design remained user-centred throughout. Empathising with users revealed key areas for development. Many associated remote care with feelings of anxiety and abandonment. To address this, I integrated an AI assistant that users can interact with, offering real-time answers to their questions and providing reassurance. I also tested app prototypes with participants to ensure the interface was accessible and intuitive for users of all ages and levels of tech proficiency. I then focused on refining the electronics, testing different sensors to optimise the accuracy and repeatability of PSA readings.

Qué lo hace diferente

Most current at-home PSA tests have major limitations. Some require third-party involvement, meaning the sample must be mailed to a lab, with results taking up to seven days. Others only give a basic 'high' or 'low' indication, rather than an exact PSA value. But PSA levels naturally fluctuate, so a single result isn’t enough to draw conclusions, rendering widespread screening useless. What really matters is identifying a consistent rise across multiple tests within a six-week period. My device addresses this by tracking PSA trends over time, offering a more accurate and meaningful picture of long-term prostate health. Also, in-person appointments allow clinicians to assess a patient’s overall health. To address this, the device is paired with an app that combines chemical test results with qualitative factors that could cause PSA to rise- such as symptoms, age, and current medications- to improve result interpretation.

Planes para el futuro

To take this project further, I hope to partner with more medical professionals to test with real samples and compare with standard lab-based PSA tests. I would also expand the user testing to further develop the system tin line with the emotional and physical needs of users to ensure this remote alternative would be supportive in real-world contexts.

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