Implementing Sensitive Albuminuria Sensor for Rural Healthcare in Thailand

Abstract

Thailand's aging society, particularly in rural areas, faces healthcare challenges as younger populations move to cities. Elderly residents often suffer from diabetes and hypertension, making hospital visits difficult. We propose a novel aptasensor for detecting urinary albumin, using DNA aptamer and graphene oxide, with detection limits of 50 ng/mL. Field trials showed 12% of 84 samples had elevated albumin levels, and 50% indicated early kidney dysfunction. This portable, point-of-care sensor can enhance early kidney disease detection and management in rural elderly populations, improving health outcomes.