Breath-Powered Device Detects Blood Sugar Without Needles

Bud Wilcox watched his two-year-old grandson Isaac endure painful finger pricks multiple times every day after a type 1 diabetes diagnosis. That heartbreak sparked an idea that could change glucose monitoring forever.

Wilcox spent years working with scientists at Indiana University to create isaac, a wearable device about the size of a quarter that detects blood sugar changes through breath analysis. Instead of needles or sensors under the skin, it measures acetone and other compounds in exhaled breath that signal glucose level shifts.

The device clips to clothing or hangs on a lanyard, making it easy to use throughout the day. Users simply breathe into it, and the connected smartphone app logs readings, tracks meal times, and sends alerts to emergency contacts if dangerous blood sugar events occur.

PreEvnt, the company behind isaac, unveiled the device at CES 2025 and quickly moved into human clinical trials. The studies started with adolescents who have type 1 diabetes and expanded to adults with type 2 diabetes, comparing breath-based alerts against traditional blood glucose monitoring.

The technology addresses a massive need. Over 37 million Americans have diabetes, and many test their blood sugar multiple times daily through finger pricks or continuous monitors that sit under the skin.

The discomfort creates real barriers, especially for young children, older adults, and anyone who struggles with needles. Even tech giants like Apple have invested heavily in noninvasive glucose tracking but haven't delivered a working solution yet.

The Ripple Effect

Beyond diagnosed diabetics, isaac could serve the growing number of people tracking metabolic health. As awareness of blood sugar's role in overall wellness expands, many without diabetes now monitor their glucose to understand how different foods affect their bodies.

The device is currently undergoing FDA review through a special pathway for new technologies. PreEvnt emphasizes that isaac won't replace medical-grade glucose meters but will supplement existing monitoring by offering early warnings through breath analysis.

A single charge powers the device all day through multiple breath tests. The companion app, launching on iOS and Android closer to market availability, focuses on awareness and safety rather than replacing doctor-supervised care.

For families like the Wilcoxes, this technology represents something profound: fewer painful moments and more peace of mind. One grandfather's determination to ease his grandson's burden could soon help millions breathe easier.