A next-generation diabetes monitor that analyzes breath may soon mean no more finger pricks to check blood sugar levels.

Natalia Nascimento, a postdoctoral researcher at the Cheriton School of Computer Science at the University of Waterloo, and a team of researchers are developing the new technology through a startup called Orientamide.

The device uses gas sensors to instantly measure breath and then connects to a program on a mobile device to provide readings.

Nascimento said in a media statement: "It is the size of a mobile phone." "We developed it through a series of prototypes and are preparing for clinical trials."

The researchers first investigated the use of gas sensors to identify diseases through breath before focusing specifically on diabetes, noting that there is nothing like this in the field.

Nascimento explained: "There are many possible uses for the same technology." "Many people live with diabetes and have to follow an uncomfortable daily routine.

We hope our product makes things a little easier." Nascimento and her team are now looking to form a partnership as controlled human trials for the product begin before its public release.

She said: "We know that conducting the trials will take about six months, then another six months for regulatory review." "We realistically hope to be able to manufacture the device and start introducing it to the world next year."

The team recently participated in several startup competitions and was recently the winner of the Concept 5k Challenge sponsored by Waterloo.