A breast-screening "smart bra" that allows users to detect breast cancer at the earliest stage is being developed by the Centre for Materials Research and Innovation at Bolton University. Elias Siores, centre director and inventor of the smart bra, said it can detect cancer before the tumour can develop and spread into surrounding areas. It can also evaluate the effectiveness of any cancer treatment its wearer is undergoing. Professor Siores said he expects the bra to go into manufacture within the next couple of years. It works using a microwave antennae system woven into the fabric of the bra.