Dr Helen Lee of the University of Cambridge has been named European Woman of Achievement 2006 for her part in improving health care in developing countries.

Helen and her team have developed simple, inexpensive and easily administered diagnostic tests for a range of infectious diseases that will have a major health impact worldwide.

Their award-winning Firstburst dipstick test for the invisible sexually transmitted disease, Chlamydia, is already in use and has been adapted to detect trachoma as well. Currently Dr Lee and the group are developing technology for the detection of HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C in one test (Triplex).

Central to the group’s success has been the setting up of a spin-out company, Diagnostics for the Real World, which has enabled their innovative ideas to be delivered quickly to those in need.

“It’s vital for diagnostic tests such as these to be instant and not expensive,” Dr Lee explained. “If you’re living in a country where you have to walk for several hours or even a day to get to a clinic, it’s extremely unlikely you would bother to make the return trip a week later to get the result of a check-up.”

“Also the healthcare spend per person in many developing countries is just a few pounds a year so they can’t afford to have expensive diagnostics.”

The award, given to women for outstanding and pioneering accomplishments in their chosen field, places Helen alongside former winners Paula Radcliffe, Angela Rippon and the chairman of the British Red Cross, Lady Limerick.

Personal commitment, determination and the ability to overcome obstacles are just some of the qualities looked for in each of the candidates.

Diagnostics for the Real World was set up in conjunction with the Wellcome Trust and the University of Cambridge.

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