Innovative Wearable Blood Pressure Monitor Offers Continuous Health Tracking

Researchers at Seoul National University have introduced a groundbreaking wearable blood pressure monitor that adheres to the skin like a bandage, enabling real-time and continuous monitoring of blood pressure. This innovative device represents a significant advancement over traditional cuff-based monitors, which are often uncomfortable and limited to single measurements.

The new technology was developed in collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University and is detailed in a recent publication in Advanced Functional Materials. The research, led by Professor Seung Hwan Ko from the Wearable Soft Electronics Lab, addresses a critical public health issue: only 21% of the estimated 1.3 billion individuals suffering from hypertension effectively manage their condition.

Current cuff-based blood pressure monitors pose numerous challenges, including discomfort and the inability to provide continuous data, which is essential for monitoring fluctuations in blood pressure linked to health and lifestyle changes. The need for a more practical solution has become apparent as these limitations hinder early diagnosis and prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

The research team developed a method that leverages the varying time it takes for electrical signals (from electrocardiograms) and mechanical signals (from pulse waves) to reach the wrist, depending on blood pressure levels. When blood pressure increases, blood flow speeds up, reducing the time difference between these signals. Conversely, a decrease in blood pressure results in a longer time difference. By analyzing these signals with each heartbeat, the device can continuously assess systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

A significant challenge was creating a device that accurately detects subtle changes in the skin caused by blood flow. The team utilized a unique liquid metal material that adheres naturally to the skin, maintaining the same elasticity and conductivity as human tissue. However, liquid metal's high surface tension complicates the creation of precise circuits. The researchers overcame this issue using a technique known as 'laser sintering,' which involves heating liquid metal particles with a laser to fuse them together at specific locations.

The result is a wearable device capable of continuous blood pressure measurement, with exceptional electrical conductivity and mechanical flexibility. Remarkably, the device maintains performance even after being stretched to 700% of its original length and subjected to over 10,000 cycles of stretching. Experiments have demonstrated its ability to monitor blood pressure changes accurately before and after physical exertion, outperforming traditional cuff methods.

This wearable blood pressure monitor is poised to transform health management. By simply attaching it to the wrist, users can continuously track blood pressure changes without the inconvenience of traditional methods. For patients with chronic hypertension, often termed a 'silent killer,' this device offers practical support, allowing them to monitor their health status anytime and anywhere.

The technology also holds promise for fitness enthusiasts, enabling the tracking of blood pressure fluctuations during exercise, which could inform personalized training regimens. Additionally, its versatility suggests potential applications in various wearable technologies, including smartwatches and medical patches, contributing to a future where health management is integrated seamlessly into daily life.

Professor Ko emphasized the significance of this research, stating that it challenges the conventional perspective on blood pressure monitoring, which is often seen as inconvenient. This innovative system presents a new approach to health care that can detect and analyze physiological signals in real-time and non-invasively.

Future research by co-first authors Jung Jae Park and Sangwoo Hong aims to enhance the device's capabilities further by integrating advanced materials, wireless communication, and AI-based data analysis.