Simple blood pressure management with a our special wristwacth-like device

We thought that if there was a wristwatch-like monitor that could be worn all day, it would be simple to take blood pressure readings any time and in any location. The device would help a person keep track of their blood pressure fluctuations through environmental factors and stress. Once people become aware of their blood pressure, they can start improving their lifestyle habits and receiving treatment for their medical issue before the onset of serious events. The development of a wearable blood pressure monitor designed to capture daytime hypertension marks OMRON Healthcare’s efforts to meet a new challenge.

Shrinking the monitor size for increased wearability

To develop a wearable monitor with clinically accurate readings, the size of the components had to be reduced without compromising measurement accuracy and principles. A conventional monitor is composed of a cuff, pump, pressure sensor and a valve. To develop a wearable monitor, OMRON Healthcare succeeded in miniaturizing all the components.

The first thing we did was to improve the cuff. The width of the cuff of the conventional monitors were around 52 mm in order to firmly push down on the wrist artery to allow readings. But for a wearable cuff design, width needed to be reduced to less than half.

A wearable monitor test performed in the US demonstrated that using a wearable blood pressure monitor increases the frequency of measurements as well as the number of consecutive days on which measurements were taken.

A survey of 30 employees also confirmed that daytime blood pressure fluctuation patterns vary from person to person. In addition, it showed change patterns vary by the time of day and the day of the week. Such findings prompted us to conclude that increasing blood pressure measuring frequency would contribute to a more detailed assessment of blood pressure changes, and this would enable personalized blood pressure management that is optimized for each individual.

The HeartGuide® wearable blood pressure monitor in wristwatch form was launched in the US market first, and later in Japan and Europe after receiving the necessary medical device certifications.

At this stage, we are already facing the new challenge to further downsize monitor components and enable around-the-clock ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. A clinical study has also been initiated to seek ways to predict or reduce cerebrovascular / cardiovascular event risks. This is based on examining the interrelation between blood pressure and other health data including ECG, sleep, and the amount of physical activity.

An unconventional way of thinking is sometimes required if we are to realize our goal of Zero Events. OMRON Healthcare will keep tackling new challenges as we continue our tireless efforts to create innovations for better health and living.