New Delhi: Researchers at the University of Queensland recently developed a rapid sensor for the detection of pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, and preterm birth risks, and that too within only 11 weeks. This can be achieved with the help of a blood test. Known as the nanoflower sensor, it works by screening blood samples for biomarkers and it could limit hospitalisations. The same sensor can also used to detect complications in the second or third trimester.
How do nanoflower sensors help with the early detection of pregnancy complications?
For this, researchers gathered blood samples of 201 pregnant women 11-13 weeks in gestation and it helped predict preterm birth, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia complications during pregnancy. These are known to have severe consequences – both short-term and long-term. However, experts say that with the help of this tech, women will be able to seek timely and the best treatment as and when needed. A biosensor with an accuracy of over 90% can prove helpful for identifying pregnancy complications later.
Experts say that this tech has been developed using nanomaterials to detect low concentrations of biomarkers that show parts of cells that carry complications. This helps make tech more sensitive than the existing testing methods and why it may be able to pick up potential complications sooner. The study’s findings were published in Science Advances.
What are some of the most common pregnancy complications?
Some of the most common pregnancy complications are:
- Hypertension
- Infections
- Heavy bleeding
- Placenta abruption
- Placenta previa
- Yeast infections
- Bacterial vaginosis
- Hepatitis A, B, C
- STIs like gonorrhea, chlamydia
- Gestational diabetes
- Anaemia
- Severe morning sickness
- Depression
- Anxiety
At a time when an unhealthy lifestyle and poor dietary choices have taken precedence over all, the new sensor can help with timely detection and treatment of pregnancy complications for both mother and child.
For this, researchers gathered blood samples of 201 pregnant women 11-13 weeks in gestation and it helped predict preterm birth, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia complications during pregnancy. These are known to have severe consequences – both short-term and long-term. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
