CATCH is a self-testing HIV kit made from recycled plastic

a self-testing HIV kit made from recycled plastic enables people to test themselves without travelling to the nearest clinic. designed by british product designer hans ramzan, CATCH is a low-cost solution that could potentially save thousands of lives by encouraging people in developing countries with limited access an easy way to test themselves.

images courtesy of hans ramzan

‘HIV is the leading cause of death in over 90% of developing countries,’ ramzan explains. ‘2.5 million individuals are infected with HIV every year. due to many external factors which are often out of indivdual control, people often live with HIV unnoticed until it develops into aids – the final stage. this low-cost device allows easy blood extraction with individuals who wish to check if they have HIV.’

first the user slides their finger into a tight sleeve on the device, which is lined with disinfectant. then after pushing down on a pipette on top of the device, a needle pierces the skin. when the pipette is released, it collects the blood.

pressing the latch button on side of the device, the needle is released and the blood falls onto the absorbent indicator. the indicator detects antibodies in the blood, showing 2 lines; one to indicate the test is working, and a second if HIV antibodies are present.

the product is specifically designed for people in emerging nations where easy access to healthcare, education and infrastructure otherwise prohibits early diagnosis. the production price of one CATCH kit is £4 (approximately $5).

‘by creating catch, it allows individuals to be self-sufficient with an easy indication device,’ adds ramzan. ‘due to limited infrastructure in many developing countries, sometimes people can live miles away from the nearest aid station or hospital. catch can ensure that it is not a wasted trip and allows an easy blood extraction process.’