Revolutionary Breath Sensor Could Simplify Diabetes Diagnosis

Recent advancements in medical technology suggest that diagnosing diabetes and prediabetes might soon become as straightforward as breathing into a device. Currently, many individuals remain unaware of their diabetic condition, with approximately 20% of the 37 million adults in the U.S. affected by diabetes not knowing they have it. Traditional diagnostic methods typically involve blood tests or lab visits, which can be costly and inconvenient.

A research team led by Professor Huanyu "Larry" Cheng from Penn State University has developed a novel sensor capable of detecting diabetes quickly and non-invasively using a simple breath sample. This innovative device measures acetone levels in the breath—an indicator that rises above approximately 1.8 parts per million in individuals with diabetes—offering a quick onsite diagnosis.

Unlike previous breath analysis sensors that relied on detecting various biomarkers needing lab analysis, this new sensor is designed for immediate, on-site detection. The device functions by analyzing exhaled acetone, a byproduct of fat burning, through a sensor made from laser-induced graphene created by precisely burning carbon-based materials with a CO₂ laser. This method produces a highly porous form of graphene that allows gases like acetone to pass through easily.

The sensor also incorporates a junction with zinc oxide to enhance selectivity for acetone over other gases, and a moisture barrier to prevent interference from water vapor in humid breath samples. Currently, users breathe directly into a bag, but future designs aim to integrate the sensor into masks or devices that can be placed near the nose, making the process even more convenient.

This breakthrough opens the door to more accessible, cost-effective, and non-invasive diabetes screening. Moreover, monitoring acetone levels could have broader implications for understanding metabolic health and tailoring personalized health interventions. The research not only enhances diagnostic capabilities but also paves the way for future applications in health and wellness monitoring.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-diabetes-easy-bag.html