Sniffing out cancer: dogs and polymers tested for breast cancer scent
NCT ID NCT04541537
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This study explored whether breast cancer has a unique smell that can be detected. Researchers used a special polymer (Sorbstar®) and trained dogs to sniff samples from 35 women before and after tumor removal. The goal was to see if a distinct scent signature exists, which could lead to a new way to diagnose breast cancer.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
What this could lead to
If successful, this could lead to a new, non-invasive way to detect breast cancer using scent.
What could go wrong
This was a very small, early feasibility study with only 35 participants. The results may not apply to everyone, and the method is still experimental.
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Institut Curie
Paris, 75005, France