Disease Diagnosis at Every Breath
Disease Diagnosis at Every Breath
Being healthy is something many people strive for, yet often take for granted. Maintaining good health depends
heavily on early and accurate disease diagnosis. Cancer, in particular, remains a leading global health concern, with
approximately one in five individuals developing cancer during their lifetime, and 12.4% of cases being lung cancer
[1]. Currently, lung cancer is generally detected using low-dose computed tomography (CT) scans; however,
screening is typically limited to individuals over the age of 50 who are considered high-risk [2]. Because early-stage
lung cancer is often asymptomatic, many cases go undetected until the disease has progressed. Early diagnosis is
critical, as survival rates can be up to ten times higher when treatment begins at an early stage; however, limited
access to widespread screening continues to present challenges [3].
Advancements in technology are transforming how diseases are detected, making early diagnosis more accessible
than ever. The lungs play a vital role in gas exchange, allowing oxygen to enter the bloodstream during inhalation
and removing waste gases, such as carbon dioxide, during exhalation. Building on this physiological process, Vocxi
Human Breath Intelligence has developed a non-invasive diagnostic approach inspired by the extraordinary olfactory
capabilities of dogs. This technology analyzes exhaled breath to identify diseases such as lung cancer without the
need for needles, imaging, or invasive procedures.
The Vocxi system utilizes nanosensors capable of detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in human
breath, which are chemical markers the company describes as being as unique as a fingerprint. During a simple oneminute breathing test, the MyBreathPrint system captures patterns created by the interaction between VOCs and the
nanosensors. Artificial intelligence algorithms then analyze these patterns, detecting specific molecules at parts-permillion concentrations and associating them with particular diseases.
This innovative platform has the potential to revolutionize disease diagnosis by reducing healthcare costs,
minimizing patient discomfort, and significantly shortening the time to results. Diagnoses can be generated within
minutes and transmitted to healthcare providers almost instantly. Looking ahead, Vocxi aims to expand this
technology beyond lung cancer to include other cancers and infectious diseases, opening new possibilities for fast,
accessible, and non-invasive medical screening.
Article written by Jennifer Joanna-Joan Villeneuve, M.ESc Biomedical Engineering Candidate, B.ESc Mechatronic Systems & B.ESc Biomedical Engineering
References
[1] “Global cancer burden growing, amidst mounting need for services,” World Health Organization,
https://www.who.int/news/item/01-02-2024-global-cancer-burden-growing--amidst-mounting-need-for-services
(accessed Feb. 10, 2026).
[2] “Lung cancer,” Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lung-cancer/diagnosistreatment/drc-20374627 (accessed Feb. 10, 2026).
[3] “The breath solution,” Vocxi Health, https://vocxihealth.com/the-breath-solution/ (accessed Feb. 10, 2026).
