A home diagnostic kit, early diagnosis of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, early detection. A home diagnostic kit to detect critical illnesses like cancer, heart disease and diabetes is being developed by a team of scientists. About 60 researchers are working on the project at Dublin City University.

This potentially life-saving device is designed to spot the early telltale signs of these killer diseases.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said : this instrument could save many lives by early detection, reduce the number of hospital admissions and stays and also develop the country's economy growth.

The team of researchers will be working at the project at Biomedical Diagnostics Institute at Dublin City University. This research has a funding of £ 22.5m .

"This research aims to deliver the science and technology that will drive a revolution in health management," said Mr Ahern at the launching function.

"The BDI is focusing on developing accurate and reliable devices suitable for self test, home use, that will enable people to take control over the management of their own health.

"These devices will enable detection of life-threatening events long before a critical stage is reached, and help chronic diseases to be controlled more effectively.

"This will reduce hospital stays and save lives."