Faster detection and treatment for blood conditions such as anaemia has come a step closer with the production of a new device.

Aptus is the world’s first handheld, portable device capable of rapidly calculating haematocrit and haemoglobin levels from a finger prick to quickly diagnose anaemia in patients around the globe.

Haematocrit is the ratio of red blood cells to the total volume of blood.

Developed in-house by medical technology firm Entia in London and supported with manufacturing by ITL Group, based in Ashford, the product aims to make anaemia simple to diagnose and quick to treat.

The first instruments from its Ashford base on the Ellingham Industrial Estate, have already been adopted for projects around the world and will see production increase throughout the year.

Tom Cole, CEO at the ITL Group, said: “Aptus is a great example of the kind of product that health professionals now demand; using the latest technology to deliver devices that are portable, intuitive and easy to use. It’s all about delivering better care for patients and this product is a perfect example of what the future holds."

Dr Toby Basey-Fisher, CEO at Entia Ltd, added: “ITL is at the forefront of specialist medical device manufacturing. Their understanding, flexibility and support for early-stage companies has also made them exceptional partners to support our own growth. We look forward to continuing our work with ITL to accelerate the global impact of our products."