Breast health monitoring vest: Realistic experimental breast tumor evaluation across breast density categories using physical twin models

Early detection of breast cancer remains a critical challenge, particularly for women with dense breast tissue where mammography often has reduced sensitivity. This proof-of-concept study explores the feasibility of a wearable breast health monitoring vest utilizing microwave sensing as a complementary approach for early detection using anatomically realistic breast phantoms representing all four clinically recognized breast density categories. The vest integrates flexible antenna sensors, positioned according to prior electromagnetic simulations to ensure optimal coverage. Scattering parameter (S-parameter) measurements are performed under two conditions: reference models without tumors and models containing centrally located tumors of approximately 1 cm in diameter. The realistic phantom-based analysis addresses three research questions: (1) the accuracy of tumor detection across different breast densities, (2) the impact of breast density on microwave signal behavior and detection performance, and (3) practical implications for developing portable, patient-friendly solutions for telemedicine and self-screening. Results provide insight into the challenges posed by dense breast tissue and highlight the potential of microwave-based wearable systems as a complementary tool for early breast cancer detection. Although the present work represents phantom-based proof-concept evaluations, these initial findings offer valuable guidance for optimizing the vest design and advancing toward subsequent clinical validation studies.