By Tiago Almeida, Scientific Communications Lead
I had the opportunity to take part in the 46th IEEE Engineering Medicine and Biology Society Conference (EMBC) in Orlando, FL. As part of a recent tradition, a symposium on cuffless blood pressure (BP) monitoring is organized every year at EMBC, and Aktiia is always kindly invited to deliver a talk on the latest findings. As the person leading Aktiia’s Scientific Communication Program, I embarked on a fantastic week in Orlando.
Around 100 curious minds joined us for the 2-part mini-symposium organized by Prof. Ramakrishna Mukkamala. During the meeting, a panel of experts in cuffless BP measurement engaged in a dynamic discussion about the current state-of-the-art in cuffless monitors, recent findings, new technologies, and validation protocols.
Such meetings are critical for developing new methods for hypertension management. Hypertension, also known as the ‘silent killer,’ affects more than 30% of the adult population, and its incidence is growing at an annual rate of 9%. Alarmingly, current BP monitoring methods achieved hypertension control rates of only around 20%. These traditional methods have been in place for decades and have failed to control hypertension due to a lack of patient engagement and poor adherence to guidelines. We must continue to develop novel BP monitoring methods that promote better patient experience, resulting in improved engagement, adherence, and ultimately, enhanced hypertension management.
On behalf of Aktiia, I was pleased to present groundbreaking results that clearly demonstrate three key points:
1. Optical Signals and Blood Pressure: Debunking the Myths of Wrist-Based Estimation
Historically, obtaining optical signals, specifically photoplethysmography (PPG), to estimate blood pressure from the wrist has been challenging. However, Aktiia has demonstrated that this is possible with their pioneering blood pressure monitoring technology, which uses optical signals. PPG technology functions by emitting light into the skin and measuring the amount of light that is either absorbed or reflected back. The variation in light absorption corresponds to the blood volume changes in the microvascular bed of the tissue. Aktiia’s advanced algorithms process this data to estimate blood pressure accurately. The primary advantage of Aktiia’s method is its non-invasive nature, allowing for continuous and comfortable monitoring. This continuous tracking provides valuable insights into cardiovascular health, capturing fluctuations and trends that might be missed with sporadic measurements. Thus, Aktiia offers a comprehensive picture of an individual’s blood pressure profile.
2. BP Can Be Estimated Without the Use of Oscillometric Cuffs
We have revolutionized blood pressure monitoring by enabling the estimation of blood pressure without the need for oscillometric cuffs. Traditional methods rely on these cuffs, which inflate and deflate around the arm to measure blood pressure In contrast, Aktiia’s technology estimate BP from PPG signals collected by optical sensors. Aktiia developed a unique method that identifies a series of features in PPG signals that are closely related to characteristics of the cardiovascular system and, consequently, BP. Our devices accurately estimate blood pressure through this innovative approach, enhancing comfort and convenience. This cuffless technology facilitates frequent and unobtrusive monitoring in various settings, from home to clinical environments, ensuring that individuals can monitor their blood pressure regularly and effortlessly.
3. Hypertension Can Be Identified with Cuffless BP Monitoring
Our cuffless blood pressure monitoring technology plays a crucial role in identifying hypertension, a condition characterized by consistently high blood pressure. Continuous monitoring allows for the detection of hypertensive episodes that might go unnoticed with intermittent measurements. This is especially important for diagnosing conditions like white-coat hypertension (elevated blood pressure in clinical settings but normal in daily life) and masked hypertension (normal blood pressure in clinical settings but elevated at other times). Our ability to monitor blood pressure in real-time throughout daily activities provides a more comprehensive view of an individual’s cardiovascular health. Early detection of hypertension through Aktiia’s continuous monitoring can lead to timely interventions, significantly reducing the risk of severe complications such as heart disease and stroke. This proactive approach ensures better management of hypertension and overall cardiovascular health.
Final remarks
The EMBC is a unique conference that allows the free exchange of scientific ideas. This year marked a change in the name of the society, from Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society to Engineering Medicine and Biology Society, setting a clear direction for the future. I am looking forward to the next EMBC in lovely Copenhagen. Until then, let’s continue engineering medicine and biology for better equity and access to well-health for everyone.