Scientists at the National Institute of Standards and Technology and Purdue University believe they have discovered the means of detecting cancer and diseases through a breath-analysis device. Although the use of this technology will not be available for use for an estimated 10 years or more, the understanding of the body and the vision for what is needed for technological development of this device is clear.
Assistant Professor at Purdue explained the research, "We are talking about creating an inexpensive, rapid way of collecting diagnostic information about a patient." In reality, the device would give an initial result which would be confirmed by the traditional, complex forms of testing presently used. However, this device can be less invasive than other initial forms of testing and can expose the onset of symptoms to address the problem before it is too late to react.
Presently, the manufacturing technology does not meet the standards in which to create the parts of this device that need precise detailing. The material of the device that will be used to detect ailments consists of tiny metal-oxide particles. These particles create a porous-like surface that helps pick up even the slightest abnormality in select gases of the breath.
