A cluster of EU research projects, collectively known as the SFIT Group are piloting garments which can measure a wearer's body temperature or trace their heart activity.  The European Commission scheme, known as Biotex, is focused on supporting the development of smart textiles. Miniaturised biosensors in a textile patch can analyse body fluids, such as sweat, and provide an accurate assessment of the wearer's health.

The idea is that a fabric would be embedded with numerous sensors, constantly monitoring vital signs. If danger signs are detected, the garment could be programmed to contact the wearer's doctor or send them a warning text message.

Jean Luprano, a researcher at the Swiss Centre for Electronics and Microtechnology (CSEM), and coordinator of the project, said medicine was one of the main areas the technology could be applied

"One of the most obvious applications for smart fabrics is in the medical field. There has been a good deal of progress with physiological measurements, body temperature or electro-cardiograms. But no-one has yet developed biochemical sensing techniques that can take measurements from fluids like sweat and blood."

An immunosensor, which could be integrated into wound dressings or bandages, can detect the presence of specific proteins in fluid samples.

The system uses no power, thereby reducing the power demands of the system and the weight of a battery pack that the wearer would have to carry.

In the first trials, the smart patches will be worn in clothes by people with obesity and diabetes, as well as athletes. Once the technology has been validated, the plan is to take on industrial backers to commercialise it.