CJMY
Taylor’s University has taken a significant step forward in the fight against cervical cancer with the introduction of the PapLite Pro™ through its Digital Health and Medical Advancement Impact Lab.
This groundbreaking innovation is set to transform cervical screening by making the process less invasive and more efficient, addressing long-standing barriers that have hindered effective screening.
PapLite Pro™: A technological leap
PapLite Pro™ is designed to enhance cervical cancer screening by improving the visualisation of the endocervix, making cell sampling more precise and convenient for both women and medical practitioners.
The device aims to reduce the discomfort often associated with traditional screening methods, a factor that has discouraged many women from undergoing regular screenings.
During the launch event, leading experts discussed the importance of early detection in improving treatment outcomes and the role of innovative technologies like PapLite Pro™ in advancing women’s health.
Professor Dr Chong Pei Pei, Director of the Digital Health and Medical Advancement Impact Lab at Taylor’s University, highlighted the device’s unique features.
“The all-in-one Pap smear innovation eliminates shadows cast by the healthcare professional’s hand, allowing better visualisation of the cervix.
It is also ergonomically designed to facilitate accurate cell collection from the correct area of the cervix, leading to more reliable diagnostic results compared to conventional tools.”
The event also featured a simulation at Taylor’s Virtual Online Future Technology & Extended Reality (VORTEX XR) Lab, where attendees could experience the differences between conventional Pap tests and the new PapLite Pro™, emphasising the benefits of this cutting-edge technology.
Addressing cervical cancer in Malaysia
Cervical cancer remains a critical health issue in Malaysia, particularly among women aged 15 to 44. In 2020, there were 1,740 new cases reported, with a concerning mortality rate of 57%.
These statistics are largely attributed to cultural stigmas, invasive screening techniques, patient preferences, and a general lack of awareness, all of which contribute to low screening uptake.
Dr Kavinash Loganathan, Research Coordinator at the National Cancer Society of Malaysia, underscored the potential impact of PapLite Pro™: “PapLite Pro™ could be a game-changer in cervical screening, offering healthcare professionals a more advanced tool for enhanced visualisation and precision in cell sampling.
This innovation is crucial in overcoming the challenges that have long plagued cervical cancer screening efforts in Malaysia.”
The launch of PapLite Pro™ brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including industry partners, medical professionals, researchers, and advocates, all united in their commitment to advancing women’s health through innovative technology.
In her welcome speech, Dr Thian Lok Boon, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Learning & Teaching at Taylor’s University, reflected on the university’s broader mission.
“Taylor’s has embarked on a journey to be a purpose-driven university – and we do it through our education, research, and advocacy. The implementation of purpose-led learning across all our schools saw us introducing 11 Impact Labs.
Each Impact Lab consists of solution-focused transdisciplinary teams of academics, industry, and students, collaborating to bring meaningful ideas to life. Our commitment to addressing societal challenges and bringing change to various communities is embodied within Taylor’sphere.”
Taylor’s University’s dedication to purpose-driven innovation is clearly demonstrated in the development of PapLite Pro™, a device that promises to make a significant difference in the lives of women across Malaysia and beyond.
C. Khor
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