Non-Invasive Screening Tool to Detect Anemia

Abstract

Hemoglobin concentration is a vital diagnostic parameter of anemia and polycythemia. Currently, invasive techniques are used for hemoglobin measurement despite their many disadvantages including discomfort and potential complications for the pregnant, elderly and pediatric patients. This study proposes a non-invasive method for hemoglobin measurement. In this study, a linear relationship was obtained between hemoglobin concentration measured using the invasive technique (Hb) and the modulation ratio (R) calculated using red light and near-IR spectroscopy. Effect of confounding factors such as gender, age were studied. The proposed non-invasive device facilitates continuous remote monitoring, prevention of infections, physical pain, and the low operational or maintenance costs while being portable.