During Flyers - At High Risk of Blood Clots

At high risk?

In-flight blood 

test can tell

Plastic Strip Can Assess Clots


London: There is good news for air passengers who are at high risk of fatal blld clots during long haul flights.
         European scientists are now developing a computerised plastic strip that could assess the risk of the condition -- known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) -- through a simple blood test among flyers.
          The new system would require one drop of blood, which would be analysed by a biochip for blood clotting markets that indicate a high risk of DVT, the Daily Mail reported.
          Immobility on flights can lead to DVT, when a blood clot forms in the deep veins of the legs which can be dangerous if left untreated. If this travels to the lungs, a pulmonary embolism can result in the lungs collapsing and heart failure.
         According to the report, researchers in eight european countries are developing the technology for the DVT system and other "smart plastics" to monitor body functions, such as a sensor wristband for measuring electric smog to warn pacemaker patients of life-threatening exposure.
        Professor Karlheinz Bock, head of Polytronic Systems at German research institute Franunhofer IZM, which is taking part in the European Union project, said; "This example shows clearly the possibilities for polytronics.
          "In a networked world, oriented towards people, inexpensive, multifunctional systems are needed. In this manner, we can construct small, handy, and easy-to-use systems that for the most part make life easier for the sick and elderly," added Bock.
           The single-use cartridge plate could be carried around by anyone at risk of clotting disorders. Initially it is expected physicians would read the results through a little hand-held scanner. But like diabetics are currently able to read their insulin levels with personal monitors, it is expected those at risk of DVT would eventually be checking their own blood clotting levels.