Abstract This perspective emphasizes the robust evidence supporting salivary sialic acid (SA) as a valuable tool for cancer prescreening, particularly for oral and breast cancers. The potential benefits of salivary SA testing include early cancer detection and treatment response monitoring. The challenges and opportunities of developing a portable cancer detection device are discussed. Enabling accessible and timely prescreening through salivary SA testing has the potential to save lives and offer an alternative to mammograms for low-risk groups. Portable Raman spectrometers show promise for SA analysis, but cost and sensitivity challenges need attention. The potential for personalized medicine, multiplexing capabilities, and remote collaboration further enhances the value of portable Raman-based cancer detection devices. Implementing these recommendations may lead to the future use of portable devices in cancer detection through salivary SA analysis. Salivary SA’s promising potential as a prescreening or adjunct biomarker extends beyond the clinical setting, and its integration into routine practice could empower individuals for home-based cancer detection, enabling more convenient and effective health monitoring.

Advancing cancer detection with portable salivary sialic acid testing