An Integrated Near Infra-Red and Magnetic Field System for Non-Invasive Monitoring of body Glucose and Na+/K+ Concentration anomalies: for Diabetes/Cancer Diagnosis
Thematic Area: Minerals, mining and materials engineering
University: Kenyatta University (KU)
Project Leader: Dr. Mathew Munji
Collaborating Partners: University of Johannesburg (SA), University of South Africa (SA), Kenya Medical Research Institute (Kenya)
Duration: 2 years
Project Overview
Cancer and diabetes are two of the leading causes of death worldwide, with a positive correlation, and the probability of cancer patients having diabetes is increasing, with type 2 diabetes being higher among cancer patients. These diseases are also associated with influx of hazardous minerals and substances as well as anomalous fluctuations of the body minerals (macro- and micro), sugars and proteins. There is overwhelming evidence that anomalies in the body ions (Na+ / K+) and glucose are potential catalysts for cancers, elevated in various tumours. The motivation for this project is how such intertwined health conditions can be monitored by a non-invasive mechanism. More importantly, early detection of diabetes or cancer is necessary for increasing the survival rate. Currently, there are no established non-invasive devices for early detection of diabetes or cancer susceptibility.
The technology
The project seeks to design a non-invasive integrated optical and Electro-magnetic field technology, for twin testing of glucose and ions (Na+/K+) anomalies, that is valuable for early detection, increased awareness and monitoring of the levels linked to diabetes and cancer susceptibility.
Its data acquisition and result output will be in real time, and in a format that is easy to understand; with a provision for auto-transmission of results to a central health statistics center for continuous demographic analysis of the prevalence of diabetes and cancer susceptibility, for the planning appropriate intervention measures.
Expected Impact
An Integrated Near Infra-Red and Magnetic Field System for Diabetes/Cancer Diagnosis once deployed in several working places would create an increase in awareness/ understanding/knowledge on the prevalence of these diseases. It will reduce the challenges related to diabetes and cancer testing such as painful finger pricks, infection risks among others thus giving patients confidence to do the tests. It will also lead to increased willingness of communities to do continuous/periodic testing for early detection and change in the lifestyles associated with high risks for diabetes and cancer.
For more information, please contact the Project Leader.
