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February 10, 2024
In a significant development for wearable health technology, Samsung Electronics announced on Friday that the sleep apnea feature on its Health Monitor app for smartwatches has received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This milestone underscores Samsung’s commitment to advancing healthcare accessibility through innovative digital solutions.
The sleep apnea feature, designed for use with compatible Samsung Galaxy Watches and phones, has already garnered approval from South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) last October. With FDA clearance, Samsung is poised to introduce this groundbreaking feature to the US market, offering users a powerful tool for early detection of sleep apnea.
Utilizing advanced algorithms, the sleep apnea feature enables users over the age of 22, who have not been diagnosed with sleep apnea, to detect signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) over a two-night monitoring period. By simply tracking their sleep twice for more than four hours within a 10-day period, users can access valuable insights into their sleep patterns and respiratory health.
Sleep apnea, if left untreated, can significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, cardiac arrhythmias, and stroke. By empowering users to monitor their sleep health proactively, Samsung aims to mitigate these risks and promote overall well-being.
The feature is slated to be available on the Galaxy Watch series in the US via the Samsung Health Monitor app in the third quarter, according to the company’s announcement. However, Samsung emphasized that the feature is not intended to replace traditional methods of diagnosis and treatment by qualified clinicians. Rather, it serves as a supplementary tool for individuals to monitor their health and seek appropriate medical guidance when necessary.
As technology continues to intersect with healthcare, Samsung remains at the forefront of innovation, leveraging cutting-edge advancements to enhance the lives of users worldwide. With FDA approval for its sleep apnea detection feature, Samsung reaffirms its commitment to leveraging wearable technology for preventive healthcare and empowering individuals to take control of their well-being.
