A small device resembling a traditional electronic sphygmomanometer with a sensor worn like a watch, could revolutionize blood pressure measurement within a few years, informs BBC News / Health.
Developed by scientists from the University of Leicester and the Singapore-based company HealthSTATS, the A-PULSE CASPro blood pressure monitor measures arterial pressure in the aorta, the body’s largest artery. A suitable sensor records the blood flow in the artery, and the data – along with the traditional pressure reading from a typical sleeve on the arm – goes to a miniature computer that calculates the pressure in the aorta.
The device displays the shape of the pulse wave, measures the pulse, systolic, diastolic and aortic pressure, and also determines whether the parameters are correct for a patient at a certain age.
The measurement is more accurate and reliable than in the case of previous measurements made only on the upper arm or forearm. Since the aorta departs directly from the heart and carries blood to the brain, the pressure measured in the aorta better reflects the risk of a stroke or heart attack, for example. You can also more accurately assess how successful the treatment is.
The new technology will go to specialists for the time being, but within the next five years, devices intended for home use should appear (PAP).