A new device has been developed by researchers that can potentially diagnose lung cancer by analyzing a patient’s breath. This innovative sensor, created by scientists in China and Spain, is incredibly sensitive and aims to be able to detect diseases in a non-invasive manner.
The sensor utilizes nanoflakes made from a combination of platinum, indium, and nickel, which are thousands of times thinner than a human hair. These nanoflakes are specifically designed to measure the levels of isoprene in a person’s breath. Isoprene levels were found to be lower in lung cancer patients compared to those without cancer in the study.
The sensor can measure isoprene in human breath with remarkable precision, working with measurements known as parts per billion. In recent tests, levels as low as 2 ppb were detected, highlighting the sensor’s sensitivity.
In a study published in the American Chemical Society journal, researchers analyzed 13 breath samples using the device. Lung cancer patients had isoprene levels below 40 ppb, while non-cancer patients had levels above 60 ppb.
Every year, around 35,000 people die from lung cancer in the UK, making it one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. Despite this, it is a preventable disease. Charities in the UK are working towards raising awareness and providing resources for prevention.
The researchers behind this study are optimistic that this detection device could potentially save lives by offering a new screening tool for lung cancer detection.
Read more:
Source: www.sciencefocus.com
