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Cannabis Campaigners' Guide News Database result:
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New tests to nail drug users
BBC Online
Thursday 14 Jun 2001 http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/uk/scotland/newsid_1387000/1387556.stm New tests to nail drug users Scientists have developed a new drugs test using nail clippings which could tell if people have abused substances up to a year beforehand. The researchers believe the test could be used successfully on athletes as well as criminals. Two teams of scientists, from Glasgow University and South Bank University in London, say nail clippings hold the key to testing for drug use. Finger nails can show if someone has used cannabis or heroin up to six months beforehand. Toe nails they grow at a slower rate, so the same test could be extended up to a year. Scientists grind down the nail into dust particles which are then tested for drugs present in the clippings. Researchers say the technique could also be used to test athletes for performance-enhancing drugs. It could identify sportsmen and women who take drugs during training but come off them for competition events. The scientists say the test will initially be used to detect heroin and cannabis, but once established it could be extended to include drugs such as cocaine and ecstasy. Last year, Scottish universities called for new ways to convert scientific discoveries into jobs. Universities have been keen to stress inward investment is welcome, but they warn it is up to Scotland to "innovate to accumulate".
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