20/05/2026
Sikkimese PhD Scholar Leads Development of Affordable Oral Cancer Screening Kit
Gangtok: In a major breakthrough for affordable healthcare innovation, Ms. Nikita Chettri, a Sikkimese PhD research scholar from the Department of Chemistry at SRM University Sikkim, is leading the development of a low-cost and non-invasive oral cancer screening kit aimed at early disease detection.
The project is being developed at the Bio-Medical Device Fabrication & Advanced Material Lab under the mentorship of Dr. Anup Gurung, Associate Professor at the university and member of Project LIFE. The research is also supported by Prof. Ch. Satish Kumar, former Vice Chancellor of the university, along with collaborators Dr. K.T. Magesh and Dr. R. Aravindhan from Chennai.
According to the research team, the innovative screening device uses a colorimetric detection method that identifies early indicators of oral cancer through visible color changes. The process is designed to be rapid, user-friendly, and does not require complex laboratory infrastructure or invasive procedures.
The screening can reportedly be completed within seconds, making it significantly faster and more accessible compared to conventional diagnostic methods. Researchers believe the kit could help address challenges such as delayed diagnosis, high testing costs, and limited access to specialized healthcare facilities.
The project is particularly significant for the North-East region, where to***co, pan, and areca nut consumption contribute to a high prevalence of oral cancer cases. The self-screening feature of the kit could allow individuals to conduct preliminary tests at home, encouraging early medical consultation and improving treatment outcomes.
The innovation has already received design registration recognition from the Government of India for an “Oral Testing Kit for Cancer,” highlighting its potential for future clinical application and large-scale public health impact.
