Wrist-worn wearables are becoming increasingly useful both as tech accessories and for monitoring sports activity and health. They are certainly not medical devices, but the increasingly advanced and precise functionalities allow monitoring of “critical” parameters instantly and taking preventive action.
The latest update from Samsung concerns the Galaxy Watch series, and could translate into a new feature coming. A joint clinical study conducted by the company and Chung-Ang University Hospital in Gwangmyeong (South Korea) demonstrated the ability of the watches in the lineup to predict fainting.
Samsung Galaxy Watch able to prevent fainting: new feature coming for future and older models?
Based on what emerged from the study, Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 (the model used) is able to prevent vasovagal syncope with high accuracy. This is the most common form of fainting, the one that occurs when the nervous system overreacts to certain stimuli, causing a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure.
Fainting is not life-threatening for the person, but can lead to serious consequences in the event of sudden falls – such as fractures or concussions. These are rapid episodes and sometimes there isn’t time to fully realize what is happening.
Consequently, a smartwatch capable of recognizing vasovagal syncope and warning the user would prove quite useful. The study by Samsung and Chung-Ang University Hospital was conducted on 132 patients, whose biosignals were monitored using the Galaxy Watch 6 mentioned above.
The data obtained on heart rate variability were analyzed using a sophisticated AI algorithm, with impressive results: the model was able to prevent fainting episodes well in advance, even up to 5 minutes, with an accuracy of 84.6%, a sensitivity of 90% and a specificity of up to 64%.
These results open the door to a new feature that could be introduced on future Samsung Galaxy Watch models, but could also find space on older models (via a software update). Clearly, for now there is nothing certain, but it remains a notable milestone for both the Korean company and the industry as a whole.
