A new, non invasive device improves early diabetes detection

    A joint study by researchers from VeraLight, TriCore Reference Labs, InLight Solutions and the University of New Mexico School of Medicine shows that a new non invasive diabetes screening device performed better than the AIC test and the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) to identify pre-diabetes and diabetes in subjects having risk factors for developing diabetes.
    The device developed by VeraLight received the code-name “Scout”. It works by using different wavelengths of fluorescent light on the forearm skin to detect abnormal concentrations of certain biological markers that are risk predictors of diabetes. The reading takes less than one minute and drawing blood is not required.Noninvasive glucometer
    This system specifically looks for a kind of molecules known as “advanced glycation endproducts” or AGE. These are indicators of cumulative damage reflecting the effects of high blood sugar levels and oxidative stress over time. Abnormally high levels of these biological indicators are strong predictors of diabetes complications. The sophisticated technology that underlies the new device is called SAGE ™ (Spectroscopic Advanced Glycation Endproducts). The device sends light beams of different colors and detects the spectral profiles of the fluorescent light that is emitted by the AGE molecules in response to the light excitation. The wavelength patterns are then analyzed by a special software installed on the device, which produces a diabetes risk score.

The study

    The results of the study presented at the 2006 Scientific Assembly of the American Academy of Family Physicians are highly encouraging. After a comprehensive screening of 351 individuals ranging from 21 to 86 years old, the Scout showed a superior sensitivity when compared to the AIC and FPG tests. Moreover, this increased sensitivity did not lead to an increase in false positives. And most importantly, the device was able to identify 29% more subjects with undiagnosed signs of diabetes than the FPG test, and 17% more than the AIC test.
    Considering that about 50% of diabetics go undiagnosed until the complications are evident, the introduction of such detection method will considerable improve the quality of life of millions and help to substantially reduce the morbidity costs associated to late detection of diabetes.

For more information visit VeraLight at http://www.veralight.com