Withings launches its smart ECG blood-pressure monitor in Europe
Withings has made BPM Core available for purchase in Europe. The US launch of the smart ECG blood pressure monitor is expected in Q3. The company has also released BMP Connect, an updated version of its classic blood pressure monitor.
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The duo was announced back at CES 2019 at the start of the year. The more interesting one is BPM Core as it’s probably the most sophisticated blood pressure monitor of its kind. Honored with a CES Innovation Award, BPM Core is capable of measuring ECG and valvular health in addition to taking your blood pressure and heart rate readings. The French outfit says this is its most advanced health wearable to date.
ECG is used to identify atrial fibrillation (AFib), a serious form of irregular heart rhythm that can lead to heart failure and is a major risk for stroke. The Apple Watch Series 4’s claim to fame is its ability to measure ECG, and we’ve seen a number of other stand-alone wearables such as AliveCor with the same ability. But this is a first for a blood pressure monitor.
To record an ECG with BPM Core, users will need to place the cuff on the upper arm and their other hand on the stainless steel sensors for 20 seconds. This creates a closed circuit during which heart rhythms are tracked. The reading is then displayed within the Health Mate App along with info on any irregularities.
Coupled with this, the digital stethoscope on BPM Core can provide early detection of valvular heart disease. The condition is characterized by damage to one of the four heart valves and may require surgical intervention. To take a measurement simply place the sensor on your chest, and it spends 20 seconds listening and evaluating heart performance.
The ability to monitor all three conditions (high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation and valvular heart disease), with one product definitely sounds like a game changer. You’ll essentially get a complete heart health checkup in 90 seconds.
“I founded Withings with the mission to leverage digital connected health technologies to help prevent disease and promote healthy lifestyles,” said Eric Carreel, President of Withings.
“With Withings BPM Core, we are providing people with an early-warning system to monitor some of the biggest risk factors in cardiovascular health. Early and regular monitoring is key to identifying, preventing and managing heart diseases, the world’s leading cause of mortality, which is why we have created a device that can be used every day in the comfort of your own home.”
Availability
As this is a medical-grade device, BPM Core is currently awaiting FDA clearance. It should receive it soon, after which it will be made available for purchase in the US. Those living in Europe can already pick it up for $249.95 on withings.com and Apple’s online and retail stores.
Withings has also released the more affordable BPM Connect. This is the successor to the Withings BPM. The main change is the inclusion of an LED display this time around for reviewing readings. You can purchase BPM Connect both in the US and other countries for $99.95 on withings.com and Amazon (check price).
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