New breathalyser testing system for diabetes to be developed

UK researchers are developing a simple breathalyser to give people with diabetes a non-invasive method for monitoring their condition.

To be produced by the UK Centre for Process Innovation and Applied Nanodetectors, the novel low-cost sensor would be incorporated into a breath-based test to measure the levels of volatile organic compounds in human breath.

Thanks to recent Innovate UK-spearheaded research, it is now possible to print glucose sensors on to flexible plastic substrates at a low cost, providing the opportunity to cheaply mass-produce the sensors.

It represents a potentially key breakthrough for the monitoring of glycaemic levels and, if commercialised, the technology could replace the prick test method typically used at present.

Taking a blood sample remains an unpleasant experience and has been cited as one of the main causes of poor patient compliance worldwide, particularly among younger patients.

James Johnstone, business manager at the Centre for Process Innovation, said: "The incorporation of a low cost, printed glucose sensor offers great potential for the commercialisation of a multi-use and environmentally friendly breathalyser device for daily diabetic management."