New Delhi: Breathalysers have long been relied upon for the detection of alcohol intake. But little did one know that soon these could pave the way for cancer diagnosis. Turns out, now, some new breath analysers will be used to detect cancer of the gut and two other forms of tumour that are extremely common. In April next year, these analysers will be used on 8000 people in NHS hospitals on patients for detecting the deadly disease. For this, patients will be asked to blow into a special bag and the same will be far less invasive than the conventional biopsies. Doctors say that the new technology will be far cheaper and less invasive than other tests currently available. The unique technology is a first in the latest detection systems that were unavailable earlier.
What are gut cancers?
Gut cancers kill thousands globally every year and are said to be difficult to detect. However, with timely diagnosis, the odds of survival improve significantly. The new test works by evaluating molecules in patients’ breath that are indicative of oesophageal, liver, and pancreatic cancers. Experts say that not only with the breathalyser technology can lives be saved, but the technique is also cost-effective and easier to roll out for maximum reach.
In the case of gut cancers, survival becomes a far-fetched question because of late diagnosis. This often either leads to long-term damage or a heightened risk of death. But to save lives, it is imperative to spot the cancer timely. If proven effective, the equipment will be rolled out for extensive use.
What are the symptoms of gut cancers?
The symptoms of gut cancers are:
Vomiting
Blood in stools
Jaundice
Unexpected weight loss
Difficulty swallowing
Bloating
Heartburn
Indigestion
Vomiting blood
Ascites (fluid build-up in the abdomen)
Feeling full after small meals
Gut cancers kill thousands globally every year and are said to be difficult to detect. However, with timely diagnosis, the odds of survival improve significantly. The new test works by evaluating molecules in patients’ breath that are indicative of oesophageal, liver, and pancreatic cancers. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
