British researchers developing mobile STI detection kit

by Steven Mostyn - Nov 10 2010, 08:53

The awkwardness and embarrassment associated with seeking out a physical exam to determine the presence of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) could soon be a thing of the past, thanks to a group of tech-savvy British researchers.

More pointedly, with the GBP equivalent of around $6 million USD behind them, the researchers are in the process of developing a software application and test kit capable of quickly detecting sexual conditions such as herpes, chlamydia and gonorrhea.

First unveiled in a Guardian report, users will be able to test themselves for STI exposure by submitting a urine or saliva sample to a small device (around the size of a pregnancy kit), which is then analysed in a matter of minutes via a supporting software application. 

“The required technology is very close to becoming a reality,” commented project leader Dr. Tariq Sadiq, consultant physician in sexual health at the University of London, while talking with tabloid publication The Daily Mail.”

Although tech development is apparently progressing well, Dr. Sadiq was also keen to point out that the team is presently tackling the potentially sticky issues of user confidentiality and the protection of sensitive data.

If the swift STI diagnosis platform is forthcoming, it’s likely to be priced at around a pound and will be widely available to the public through supermarkets, pharmacies and even nightclubs.

On a slightly less flippant note, the UK is one of Europe’s worst offenders when it comes to teenage pregnancy rates and the spread of sexually transmitted infections.

Around the Web