Breath Test Can Detect Types of Cancer

'Electronic nose' can sniff out cancerous molecules
By Dan MacKenzie,  Newser User
Posted Aug 12, 2010 12:50 PM CDT Posted Aug 12, 2010 12:50 PM CDT
Promoted on Newser Aug 12, 2010 2:02 PM CDT
Cancer Detection Possible Through Breath Test
Scientists are developing a way to detect cancer through a breath test, using a so-called electronic nose.   (AP)

Scientists have discovered that through a breath test they can detect cancer. As cancer grows, it emits certain chemicals from the surface of the affected cells that can be recognized by an "electronic nose" that uses gold nanoparticles. Early results were published in the British Journal of Cancer and showed that sensors could tell whether a subject had a specific cancer, such as lung, breast, bowel. or prostate cancer.

Further work is being done to improve the process, and the potential for a single breath test to detect multiple cancers is promising. "Strengthening the methods for early diagnosis of cancer as well as improved treatments will have a significant impact on cutting death rates," said Dr. Lesley Walker of the Cancer Research UK Charity. Read the full article at Discovery News.
(More cancer stories.)

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