AI-Driven Lung Test Set for Widespread Introduction in UK GP Surgeries

N-Tidal Diagnose aims to enhance the speed and accuracy of COPD diagnosis across the NHS.

A new artificial intelligence (AI)-powered device, N-Tidal Diagnose, is poised to be rolled out in general practitioner (GP) surgeries across England starting April 14, 2025. The device aims to improve the diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a common lung condition that affects millions in the UK. Developed by TidalSense, N-Tidal Diagnose utilizes carbon dioxide sensors to rapidly assess lung function, delivering results in just minutes.

COPD encompasses a variety of respiratory disorders, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, and is currently diagnosed through spirometry tests.

These traditional tests typically require patients to inhale deeply and exhale forcefully, often taking between 30 to 90 minutes to complete.

In contrast, the new device measures CO2 concentrations during normal breathing, providing a diagnosis within five minutes.

Regulatory authorities have granted N-Tidal Diagnose CE-mark status under EU Medical Device Regulations specifically for COPD diagnosis.

Plans for its rollout also extend to addressing asthma diagnosis as testing progresses.

Dr. Ameera Patel, chief executive of TidalSense, emphasized the significance of this technology, noting the longstanding challenges in respiratory diagnostics compared to other medical fields.

She stated that the introduction of N-Tidal Diagnose represents a critical breakthrough, designed to meet both patient care and health system efficiency needs.

According to estimates, approximately 1.2 million people in the UK have a diagnosis of COPD, with up to two million individuals potentially going undiagnosed.

Dr. Patel indicated that the new device could assist the UK government in its efforts to reduce NHS waiting times, which are currently under pressure from high patient volumes and systemic challenges.

Dr. Simon Rudland, a GP in Suffolk, described the device as transformative.

He highlighted the difficulties associated with spirometry testing, which can lead to significant wait times for patients seeking a diagnosis for COPD.

The ability to quickly and accurately assess lung health with the N-Tidal Diagnose could streamline the diagnostic process in both primary and secondary healthcare settings.

In addition to its potential impact on COPD, ongoing research seeks to explore the feasibility of using N-Tidal Diagnose for asthma diagnosis, pending the outcomes of current trials.

This innovation signifies a potential shift in respiratory care, making diagnostic testing more accessible and efficient for patients across the UK.