Advancing blood pressure monitoring with wearable technology
High blood pressure (hypertension) is a leading cause of heart attacks, stroke, and other serious health conditions. Effective blood pressure monitoring is essential for managing hypertension, but traditional cuff-based devices are often inconvenient, uncomfortable, and impractical for continuous tracking.
The Continuum BP Study, led by Dr. Ajay K Gupta and CVCTU, is investigating whether cuffless wearable devices can provide an accurate and user-friendly alternative to conventional ambulatory blood pressure monitors (ABPMs). The study is testing two innovative devices:
- The Hilo (formerly Aktiia) Bracelet, which uses optical sensors to measure blood pressure at the wrist.
- The BPro Evo smartwatch, which employs pulse wave analysis to estimate blood pressure continuously.
This single-centre, randomised, prospective cross-over study will recruit 42 participants. The goal is to compare the accuracy of these cuffless wearables against standard upper arm cuffed blood pressure monitors over a 24-hour period.
Beyond accuracy, the study will assess the acceptability and usability of wearable devices for long-term blood pressure monitoring. Many people find traditional cuff-based monitors uncomfortable or annoying due to the need in part for frequent cuff inflation particularly at night, which discourages regular use. If cuffless technology proves reliable, it could revolutionise blood pressure tracking and thus hypertension management.
This research could lead to a new standard for hypertension care, making it easier for patients and doctors to track and manage blood pressure with discreet, wearable devices.
To talk to someone about the Continuum BP study contact the team on whri-brc-cvctu@qmul.ac.uk