Wearable tech is advancing.
A new study has revealed that a high-tech “smart shirt” embedded with an electrocardiogram (ECG) system may help identify individuals at an increased risk of heart disease. The shirt monitors how quickly a person’s heart rate returns to normal following physical activity, offering valuable insights into cardiovascular health. According to lead researcher Manuel Hernandez, a professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the body’s response to exercise can serve as an early warning signal for potential heart issues and overall health decline.
The research team used a wearable shirt developed by Carré Technologies, a company based in Quebec. This innovative garment is equipped with sensors that continuously track heart function, including electrical activity and heart rate. In the study, 38 participants aged 20 to 76 took part in treadmill exercises, with seven individuals already diagnosed with hypertension. The data collected allowed researchers to create a model that could help pinpoint those with a higher likelihood of developing cardiovascular problems.
The ultimate goal of this research is to translate these findings into practical tools that can inform clinical decisions and promote early intervention. Hernandez emphasized the importance of turning the wearable’s data into information that can guide medical action. Co-researcher Richard Sowers, also from the University of Illinois, noted that widespread use of such devices could enable remote health monitoring, especially beneficial for individuals in underserved or rural areas with limited access to medical care.
Looking ahead, researchers plan to expand their studies by increasing the participant pool and monitoring health metrics over extended periods. Meanwhile, similar smart shirt technologies are being explored elsewhere. For instance, Italian researchers recently showcased their version of a health-monitoring shirt at the European Association of Urology meeting. Their design allows patients to track vital signs from home after hospital discharge. Dr. Antonio Pastore of Sapienza University of Rome reported high user satisfaction, with over 90% of patients feeling more secure and supported during recovery.
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