Lateral flow tests (LFTs) became essential during the Covid-19 pandemic. People used them to check for infections before meeting others. Now, these simple devices help detect other health conditions.
Boots UK now sells finger-prick LFTs to measure vitamin D, iron, and cholesterol levels. They also offer flu tests. Scientists are finding new ways to use LFTs, including detecting strokes and other diseases. Researchers have even tested samples from fingerprint sweat, river water, and cat vomit.
How Lateral Flow Tests Work
Lateral flow tests also known as LFTs find specific molecules without needing expensive lab tools. They contain antibodies that react to a target substance, showing a color change. The first LFT, the Clearblue pregnancy test, appeared in the 1980s. Before Covid-19, pregnancy tests were the most common use. The pandemic led to big improvements in this technology.
“More people now understand lateral flow testing,” said Dr. Chris Hand, co-founder of Abingdon Health. “It is becoming a real alternative to lab tests.”
One big advantage of LFTs is speed. Quick results help doctors make fast decisions. The pandemic boosted LFT production, making them easy to find. Many people are now comfortable using self-tests.
New Medical Uses for LFTs
LFTs now help in many areas of medicine. Boots UK offers at-home tests for vitamin D, iron, and cholesterol levels. These let people check their health without seeing a doctor. Pharmacies also sell flu tests, helping users find out if they have the virus.
Scientists are working on LFTs that detect strokes. Finding a stroke early can save lives and improve recovery. “The beauty of lateral flow tests is their simplicity,” said Gonzalo Ladreda, CEO of Upfront Diagnostics. “People understand them—one line means positive, no line means negative.”
LFTs may also help detect cancer. Some tests in development can find cancer markers in blood or urine. This could make early detection easier and improve treatment results.
Environmental and Veterinary Applications
LFTs are being tested for non-medical uses too. Some researchers use them to check for harmful bacteria in rivers. This could help stop waterborne diseases.
LFTs could also change veterinary medicine. Scientists are making tests to diagnose diseases in pets. One experiment even tested cat vomit for illness. These advances could make pet care cheaper and easier.
The Future of Rapid Testing
LFTs are changing healthcare. They give fast, reliable results without needing a lab. Their simplicity makes them easy for anyone to use. As research continues, these tests could become even more useful.
The pandemic showed how powerful LFTs can be. Now, their uses are growing. With better tech, lateral flow tests could be key to modern medicine.
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