Fingerprints Show Drug Use

Scientists say they can identify drug use through fingerprint analysis.

10:26 20 May 2015

Scientists from the University of Surrey said that they can tell if someone has been taking drugs through their fingerprints due to the chemicals produced when cocaine is broken down in the body. 

 

Scientist argued that the new drug testing method could be used for drug abuse clinics, prisons, and even for routine testing in the workplace. They believe that when compared to drug-testing using saliva, urine, or blood, the fingerprint method produce quicker results. 

 

The study, which was published in the journal Analyst, detects two chemicals benzoylecgonine and methylecgonine. 

 

Despite being effective, the current kit may be impractical as it is the size of a washing machine and very expensive. 

 

Dr Melanie Bailey, a lecturer in analytical and forensic science, told the BBC: "The mass spectrometer is the same size as a washing machine and what we are currently using is £400,000 to buy so it is not cheap."

 

However, she confirmed that it could be useful. "I would have thought it useful for workplace testing, somewhere where you want high-throughput."

"Drug rehabilitation centres where we are working are keen to use this methodology for patients on drug-treatment programmes.

"Then there are customs and probation services, drug testing and perhaps roadside testing."