BREATH-BASED, NON-INVASIVE DETECTION OF DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS IN ADOLESCENTS USING THE MQ135 SENSOR: A LOW-COST ALTERNATIVE TO BLOOD KETONE TESTING

Document Type : Original research articles

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King Hussein Foundation, Jubilee Institute, Jordan

Abstract

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) remains one of the most serious complications of Type 1 Diabetes, particularly among adolescents who may struggle with consistent blood ketone monitoring due to the invasive nature of current methods. This project presents a non-invasive, breath-based DKA detection system utilizing the MQ135 gas sensor to identify acetone—a key biomarker of ketosis—in exhaled air. Designed with teenagers in mind, the system combines affordability, real-time analysis, and ease of use by integrating a sensor module with an Arduino microcontroller, LCD display, and visual LED indicators. Testing was conducted on 91 participants aged 10–18 years, comparing breath-based classifications with blood β-hydroxybutyrate measurements. The device achieved a 96% accuracy rate, demonstrating a strong correlation between breath acetone and blood ketone levels. While minor mismatches occurred near the DKA threshold, the results support the feasibility of using breath acetone as a reliable indicator for early DKA detection. This study highlights the potential of breath analysis technology to transform diabetes management, offering a painless, accessible, and user-friendly alternative for young individuals at risk of DKA.

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