ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Feb. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (New Mexico Tech) and Biomoda, Inc. (www.biomoda.com), have partnered with the New Mexico Department of Veterans Services (DVS) to conduct a $350,000 clinical study using proprietary testing technology for detection of early lung cancer in the state’s veterans.
The $350,000 clinical program will be administered by New Mexico Tech, a science and engineering research university in Socorro. Biomoda, a biotech company focusing on very early cancer detection technology, through its Albuquerque office, will conduct the first year of the program using its patented non-invasive diagnostic technology for cost-efficient screening of early stage lung cancer in large populations. New Mexico Tech and the New Mexico Department of Veterans Services will oversee the clinical program.
“Early detection is critical to surviving lung cancer,” said New Mexico Tech President Dr. Daniel H. Lopez. “Further enhancement and validation of these technologies will significantly impact the way we diagnose and treat lung cancer throughout the world. New Mexico Tech is excited to play a significant role on this project.”
Biomoda’s technology is based on a patented application that identifies cancerous or aberrant cells from samples of lung sputum. Cancerous cells glow red under fluorescent light and can be detected under a microscope. The technology is non-invasive and designed for cancer screening of large populations at a reasonable cost.
“By supporting this study, our state’s public officials have illustrated the importance of caring for our veterans and providing the opportunity to be diagnosed, treated, and potentially cured of lung cancer by catching it in the early stages,” said John Cousins, President of Biomoda.
Biomoda’s team of experts will be dedicated to the year-long clinical study. The team includes representatives from TriCore Laboratories, Averion International, and Quintiles Consulting. The Black Veterans Association of New Mexico will assist with outreach to veterans.
With more than 160,000 people diagnosed every year, lung cancer represents 30 percent of all cancer deaths in the U.S. Veterans have a 25 percent higher risk exposure, incidence and lung cancer mortality rates than civilians.
jtaylor@calypsocom.com
CONTACT: Jamila Taylor of Calypso Communications, +1-603-431-0816,
jtaylor@calypsocom.com, for Biomoda, Inc.
Web site: http://www.biomoda.com/
