Painful finger-prick blood tests taken several times a day by millions of diabetics could become a thing of the past.
A pioneering new patch that sticks onto the skin to test glucose levels has been created by scientists.
The device, developed by Bath University researchers, works by assessing sugar levels in sweat - not blood.
It is hoped the skin patch could one day be linked to a smartphone app to warn diabetics when to take action.
The patch, if proven in larger trials, could replace the current method, considered unpopular, to test sugar levels.
Professor Richard Guy and colleagues found the patch was accurate after testing it on pigs and two human volunteers.
He said: 'A non-invasive - that is, needleless - method to monitor blood sugar has proven a difficult goal to attain.
'The closest that has been achieved has required either at least a single-point calibration with a classic "finger-stick", or the implantation of a pre-calibrated sensor via a single needle insertion.'
Professor Guy added the new monitor 'promises a truly calibration-free approach'.
Professor Guy and colleagues hope to improve the design of the patch to allow for full functionality across a 24-hour period and carry out clinical trials.
