A CYTED network: new non-invasive ways for an early diagnosis of chronic and degenerative diseases: diabetes and cardiovascular

In this work, an analysis of the principal characteristics, scientific aims and some initial results, of the Iberoamerican R&D network "Ditecrod" (Project of CYTED) is made. This network is based on an international agreement to propitiate an efficient trans-disciplinary cooperation in a scientific area where currently significant research efforts are being made for their high potential impact on future health and quality of life: The non-invasive Early medical diagnosis of Cardiovascular and Diabetic Foot diseases. Both chronic & degenerative pathologies are endemic today in many American countries. The main project objectives are the research, application and diffusion of new non-invasive diagnostic methods, having a low technologic cost and an easy portability, in relation to nowadays disposable approaches. The main results (in the first year of operation) of this multinational network are described. This project also seeks to promote the cooperation working among 11 working teams integrated in six R&D groups with large experience and previous innovations on the subject, and 2 emerging university groups until now focused mainly on the university teaching; in total 13 teams of 8 countries: 5 of Biomedical Engineering, 4 of Biophysics, 2 hospitals and 2 companies.