New groundbreaking blood pressure device

A groundbreaking “wrist watch” could revolutionise the way blood pressure is measured within the next few years, according to scientists.

Evidence shows the device provides a much more accurate reading than the traditional arm cuff.

It is hoped the technology, funded by the Department of Health and backed by Health Secretary Andrew Lansley, will change the way blood pressure has been monitored for more than a century.

The device works by measuring pressure in the largest artery in the body, which is known to give a different reading to in the arm.

This aorta is very close to the heart and brain, which are at risk from strokes and heart attacks.

By taking a much more accurate reading from the aorta, doctors can work out appropriate treatment based on the risks from high blood pressure.

The device has been invented by scientists at the University of Leicester and in Singapore.

A sensor in the watch records the pulse wave of the artery, which is then fed into a computer together with a traditional blood pressure reading from a cuff.

Bryan Williams, professor at the University of Leicester’s department of cardiovascular sciences at Glenfield Hospital, said he expected the technology to be in use shortly in specialist centres before being rolled out.

“Within five years I think this is going to be used much more widely,” he said.

“The aorta is millimetres away from the heart and close to the brain and we have always known that pressure here is a bit lower than in the arm.

“Some patients have high pressure in the arm but their aortic pressure is completely normal.”

Prof. Williams said it was important to ensure the new device was as small as possible to encourage clinicians and patients to use it.