New Blood Test Could Detect Pregnancy Complications Earlier, Reveals Study

Researchers from the University of Queensland (UQ) in Australia have developed an innovative blood test that can detect pregnancy complications much earlier than current methods. Their study, published in Science Advances, suggests that this breakthrough could help prevent serious pregnancy-related issues and reduce hospital admissions for newborns.

How the Test Works

This advanced test called the “nanoflower sensor,” analyzes blood samples for specific cell biomarkers that indicate potential complications such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and preterm birth risk. Unlike existing methods, which identify such risks in the second or third trimester, this test can detect them as early as 11 weeks into pregnancy.

Carlos Salomon Gallo, a researcher at UQ’s Center for Clinical Research, explained that the team tested the sensor on blood samples from 201 pregnant women between 11 and 13 weeks of gestation. The results were highly promising.

“Most pregnancy complications are only detected in later stages, making it difficult to intervene in time. With this technology, women can receive medical care much earlier. Our biosensor also demonstrated over 90 per cent accuracy in identifying those at risk,” Gallo said.

Impact on Maternal and Infant Health

Early detection allows healthcare providers to offer timely treatment, reducing the chances of emergency interventions like cesarean sections or premature births. The research team believes this advancement could lead to significant healthcare savings by lowering neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions and preventing high-risk pregnancies from escalating into emergencies.

“This technology has the potential to transform how we assess and manage pregnancy risks, improving clinical decision-making in obstetric care,” Gallo added.

The Science Behind the Innovation

The nanoflower sensor works by using nanosensors to detect extremely low concentrations of biomarkers in the blood. According to study co-author Mostafa Kamal Masud from UQ’s Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, current testing methods lack the sensitivity required to detect complications in early pregnancy stages.

This cutting-edge technology provides expectant mothers and doctors with crucial health information much earlier, enabling better medical planning and care throughout pregnancy.

Future of the Test

While this breakthrough is promising, further clinical trials and regulatory approvals are necessary before the test can be widely used in prenatal care. However, the study’s results suggest that early screening for pregnancy complications could soon become a reality, ensuring safer pregnancies and healthier outcomes for both mothers and babies.

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