Microwave-powered blood glucose monitor ‘could avoid need for blood samples’

A new type of blood glucose monitor that relies on non-invasive techniques is being developed that could help diabetes patients avoid the need for regular blood extraction.

Created by Cardiff University engineers, the monitor can be discreetly attached to the arm or body using an adhesive and tracks glucose levels using sensors that send data to a computer or mobile app.

Though it relies on microwave technology, the level of radiation is around one thousand times less than that given off by a mobile phone, making it safe for everyday use.

This new device will help users to avoid the need to prick their finger to extract blood except for during the initial calibration, while also making it possible to track glucose levels throughout the day, rather than at regular intervals.

Study leader Professor Adrian Porch of the Cardiff University School of Engineering said: "Patients are very keen on this. One of the big problems with patients measuring their glucose is they don't like pricking their finger, so there's a lot of interest."

The project has received one million pounds in funding from the Wellcome Trust. Research commenced in 2008 and it is expected that the technology could hit the market within the next five years.