A BREATHALYSER device that can detect diabetes in children is being developed by Oxford University scientists.

The breath test is designed to spot early signs of an organic chemical with a sweet aroma called acetone that is associated with the disease.

Acetone, often used in solvents including nail polish remover, belongs to compounds called ketones that accumulate in the blood when insulin levels are low. Ketones are released when a lack of the hormone insulin means the body cannot use glucose for energy and starts to break down fat instead.

If left unchecked, ketone build-up can lead to a dangerous condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

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Prof Gus Hancock, a professor of chemistry at Oxford University, said the breathalyser could help in the management of children with diabetes by warning of impending DKA and preventing hospital admissions.

He added: “We are working on the development of a small hand-held device that would allow the possibility of breath measurements for ketone levels. Currently testing for diabetes requires a blood test, which can be traumatic for children.”

One in four children with Type 1, or insulin-dependent, diabetes do not know they have the disease until they become severely ill with DKA.

Scientists collected breath samples from 113 children and teenagers.

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