ePaper Bangla

Dr. Sopan Das' Revolutionary Device : A Glimmer of Hope for Lung Cancer Prevention

Dr. Sopan Das' Revolutionary Device : A Glimmer of Hope for Lung Cancer Prevention
Tech

The device invented by Dr. Sopan Das is a significant milestone in medical science. Various devices are used in medical science to cure, prevent, and manage diseases, ensuring human health. Similar to other branches of science, medical science continues to make new discoveries every day, constantly advancing. Scientists work tirelessly, especially with the increased focus due to the impact of the Corona pandemic. Notably, Bangladeshi scientists have made several important discoveries in medical science, bringing honor to the country. Some of these scientists have even received international awards. In this context, I would like to highlight an individual who is poised to create a new chapter in science, both in Bangladesh and the world: Dr. Sopan Das. He currently serves as a senior scientific officer in the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission.

Dr. Das' invention, aimed at preventing lung cancer in the human body, has garnered significant attention in the field. This innovative device can detect the presence of two radioactive gases, radon and thoron, separately in the air. Its impact on medical science is poised to be revolutionary. In an interview with a reporter, Dr. Das discussed his device and his professional journey. He joined the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission as a scientific officer in 2012, following his previous role as a Physics lecturer at Pabna Cadet College. In 2017, he pursued a master's program in the Department of Nuclear and Quantum Engineering at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) in South Korea, supported by the Joao-Kaojung Scholarship. After successfully completing the program, he embarked on a Ph.D. in the same department, which he completed in 2022. Dr. Das had also obtained his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Physics from Chittagong University in Bangladesh. The invention of this device became a pivotal milestone in his Ph.D. journey. Its capability to detect the presence of radon and thoron gases separately in the air holds significant importance.

Radon and thoron gases are consistently present in the air, but their levels can fluctuate due to various reasons. Since these gases are colorless, odorless, and tasteless, their detection without a specialized device is impossible. Notably, these gases rank as the second leading cause of lung cancer, with smoking being the primary cause. Dr. Das' device empowers individuals to measure the presence of these gases in their homes and workplaces, thereby reducing the risk of lung cancer. By following the guidelines set by the World Health Organization, people can take necessary precautions.

The invention process involved the use of various electronic components, as the device is electronic in nature. The potential market for detectors, both in the public and private sectors, is substantial. Before this innovation can be fully realized, a marketing pilot phase is necessary. Dr. Das mentioned his Ph.D. thesis supervisor's involvement in an early-stage pilot project with a small company in South Korea. However, there is still much to be done in terms of marketing. Dr. Das remains hopeful that the commercial significance of this innovation will attract the attention of multinational companies, benefiting the private sector and humanitarian causes in Bangladesh.

One standout aspect of Dr. Das' technology is its affordable price compared to similar devices. While similar devices typically cost around Rs 7 lakhs, Dr. Das' device is estimated to cost around Rs 50,000. This affordability makes it accessible to a wider audience, both domestically and internationally.

Dr. Das strongly believes that the general population in developing countries, including Bangladesh, lacks awareness about lung cancer caused by radon and thoron. Research has shown that thoron has an equivalent impact on lung cancer as radon. Dr. Das' device, capable of measuring Thor.


According to the report by journalist Taslima Khatun (treasurer of PIBJAA),the feature was authored by Dr. Md Abu Bakar Siddique, who is widely recognized as Dr. Dipu Siddiqui, the Vice President of PIBJAA .