Lung diseases pose a significant public health challenge globally due to their high mortality rates. As an innovative solution, the Electronic and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) has developed a new diagnostic technology that is gaining attention. This technology integrates an exhalation analysis device, a lung function tester, and a stethoscope into an all-in-one diagnostic tool, significantly enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of early diagnosis.
The newly developed device is a system that can recognize complex sensory measurement data, using ICT technology to analyze collected information and determine lung abnormalities. The core of this device, the exhalation analysis technology, was developed based on ETRI’s electronic nose technology. This advancement explores the relatively uncharted field of olfactory research and enhances the ability to sense exhalation biomarkers associated with lung diseases, opening a new dimension in medical devices. An exhalation biomarker is a biological indicator that can diagnose lung diseases within exhaled breath components. In this research, the exhalation biomarker is nitric oxide (NO).
The device collects various data such as olfactory, auditory, and pressure information through breathing and uses it to detect the presence of lung diseases early. For instance, the exhalation analysis device detects volatile organic compounds like nitric oxide (NO) in exhaled breath to diagnose lung diseases. This is particularly useful for detecting elevated nitric oxide levels typical in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pneumonia. Meanwhile, the lung function measuring device assesses the functional health status of the lungs by measuring respiratory volume and capacity, and the intelligent stethoscope digitizes and analyzes breathing sounds to detect abnormal lung sounds.
This innovative approach of integrating individual devices was prompted by the rapid increase in lung disease patients and the resulting societal challenges. The surge in pneumonia cases, mainly due to an aging population, has highlighted the critical need for early diagnosis and treatment. The integrated all-in-one device meets this societal demand by improving self-monitoring accuracy and enabling faster diagnosis.
The device is straightforward; users power it on and press the three test buttons to conduct the exams. In training mode, users exhale at a consistent speed, and after switching to measurement mode, they can view the results as numerical values and graphs. This method applies similarly to measuring lung capacity and lung sounds, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of lung health.
The greatest advantage of this technology is its ability to simplify complex medical procedures and detect subtle changes deep within the lungs. Previous diagnostic methods relied on separate equipment, limiting diagnostic accuracy and versatility. However, the newly developed integrated device combines various technologies, facilitating quicker and more accurate diagnoses.
The practical application of early diagnostic technology for lung diseases is expected to impact individuals and society positively. Early diagnosis will prevent disease progression, enabling patients to receive the necessary treatment sooner and improving their quality of life. Additionally, reducing healthcare costs and preventing the spread of infectious diseases can enhance public health conditions. This advancement is anticipated to reduce inequalities and improve access to healthcare services in areas with limited medical resources.
Moving forward, it is essential to continuously test this technology in clinical settings to validate its efficacy and develop it into a versatile diagnostic tool capable of addressing various respiratory diseases. The team, led by Joon-Hak Bang, Senior Researcher of the Emotional Digital Human Research Center at ETRI, emphasizes that they are continuing multiple research and development efforts to use this technology to bring about real social change. It is hoped that such developments will enhance people's health and improve living standards.
