KUALA LUMPUR, 8 Nov 2018: National applied research and development agency, MIMOS, has announced a major breakthrough in medical device technology with the unveiling of a non-invasive, non-intrusive and non-destructive device for blood glucose screening. The device applies chemometrics methods to analyze the near-infrared (NIRS) obtained in absorbance mode through the user’s thumb spectra.
Called GlucoSenz, the device is the world’s first clinically-tested non-invasive blood screening prototype. It works by using photonics, electronics and software technologies to detect, analyse and predict blood glucose level from the blood capillaries of the human thumb without piercing the skin.
To use the device, the thumb is placed on the thumb module, where light will be projected. The reflected light is then collected by a fibre-optic probe that guides the light to a detector. The light spectrum is then analysed by a built-in software module. The blood glucose level result in mmol/l then appears on the LCD display.
The device is a result of a seven-year research and development by MIMOS’ photonics technology laboratory. Ethical approval for the device was obtained from the Malaysia Medical Device Association; Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cyberjaya University College of Medical Science (CUCMS) and the UKM Medical Centre (HUKM).
“The launch of GlucoSenz marks a huge step forward for MIMOS’ Advanced Electrical and Electronics division, particularly the photonics R&D team,” MIMOS R&D Senior Director Mohd Shahiman Sulaiman said.
“At this stage, the solution can bring a significant impact to healthcare providers, where safety and economics are of paramount importance. A non-invasive, non-intrusive glucometer will protect healthcare personnel from possible occupational exposure to infected blood. Hospitals and clinics will also reduce cost in the long run as alcohol swabs, lances and test strips will no longer be used,” he said.
Mohd Shahiman revealed that works on miniaturising the device are under way, with a target to produce the first mini prototype for trial by mid-2019.
“GlucoSenz would potentially replace conventional glucometers due to its ease of use and high accuracy. Countries with high rates of diabetes and obesity should keep a watch on this product as it has a huge market potential,” he said.
Mohd Shahiman added that market roll-out is expected by end-2019.
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