Doctors will test a new machine capable of detecting cancer in two minutes with a simple BREATH test

A breathalyser detecting cancer in just seven minutes could be used within two years, at the start of clinical trials in Britain.

The test uses an "electronic nose" capable of detecting chemicals produced by cancers.

Human trials are scheduled to take place this fall in two NHS hospitals and two in the United States, involving hundreds of patients.

Non-invasive tests, initially targeted at lung cancer, will allow patients to breathe through a mouthpiece for one minute, after which the analysis is transmitted to a supercomputer.

The device detects the chemicals produced by each cancer, called "volatile organic compounds", and could help detect cancer at a very early stage.

The tests offer a high level of precision by working at the level of "nanoparticles", experts say.

Ancon Medical, which is behind the technology, said the kits may be available within two years if the tests succeed.

Dr. Kenny Livingstone, of the GP Access Application, Zoomdoc, said the tests were "revolutionary" and "revolutionary for patients."